What is tapeworm medicine for cats?

As of 2014, praziquantel is the most commonly used type of tapeworm medication for cats, but other dewormers such as fenbendazole and epsiprantel are also used. Since many tapeworms are transmitted by fleas, topical treatments such as imidacloprid are usually part of the treatment.

The effectiveness and safety of these medications can vary depending on the region and the cat. Cats with tapeworms should be seen by a veterinarian before medication is given. The dewormers are given orally and work by killing the tapeworms living inside the cat. In addition to fleas, cats that are allowed outside may catch tapeworms from eating infected wild animals or from exposure to feces containing tapeworm eggs.