How Fast Does Profender Work in Cats?
When your cat is diagnosed with an intestinal worm infection, fast and effective treatment is critical for its health and comfort. Profender, a prescription topical solution, provides a swift, non-invasive alternative to oral dewormers. Pet owners often ask, "How quickly does Profender start working?" This article explores the timeline and effectiveness of Profender and how to properly use it.
What Is Profender?
Profender (emodepside/praziquantel) is a topical deworming solution used in cats and kittens at least 8 weeks old and weighing 2.2 lbs (1 kg) or more. Approved by the FDA, it treats and controls:
- Hookworms – Ancylostoma tubaeforme (adults and larval stages)
- Roundworms – Toxocara cati (adults and larvae)
- Tapeworms – Dipylidium caninum and Taenia taeniaeformis (adults)
Available in single-dose tubes, Profender is formulated in three dosage sizes to suit cats of different weights, from 2.2 lbs to over 17.6 lbs.
How Quickly Does It Work?
Profender is known for its rapid onset of action. After topical application, the active ingredients—emodepside and praziquantel—absorb through the skin and reach systemic circulation. Within hours, they begin attacking and eliminating intestinal parasites. While the exact time frame varies slightly depending on the cat’s weight, age, and overall health, owners can typically expect to see results within the same day.
Benefits of Topical Application
- Eliminates the stress of pilling cats
- Absorbs through the skin for systemic effect
- Effective against multiple types and life stages of worms
Because Profender acts internally, it targets both adult worms and the larval stages that may not yet have caused symptoms. This makes it highly effective not just as a treatment but also a preventive tool in managing intestinal parasites.
How to Apply Profender
Correct application is essential to ensure safety and efficacy. Follow these steps:
- Choose the correct tube size based on weight.
- Remove one tube from the package.
- Hold upright and remove the cap.
- Reverse the cap to break the seal.
- Expose skin at the base of the head/neck.
- Apply the contents directly onto the skin.
- Avoid touching the treated area until dry.
Always ensure cats in multi-pet households do not lick each other’s application sites until the product is completely dry. This typically takes around one hour.
Duration of Effectiveness
One dose of Profender generally provides complete protection against the targeted parasites. However, if your cat is at high risk for re-infection (e.g., outdoor exposure), the product can be reapplied after 30 days under veterinary guidance.
Effects and Precautions
Profender has undergone extensive testing in both laboratory and field settings. A clinical trial involving 606 cats demonstrated its safety and efficacy. Possible side effects include:
- Excessive grooming or licking
- Scratching at application site
- Temporary lethargy or agitation
- Minor gastrointestinal upset like vomiting or diarrhea
These effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. If severe or persistent symptoms occur, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Important Usage Warnings
- Not for use in kittens under 8 weeks or cats under 2.2 lbs
- Do not apply to broken skin or if the fur is wet
- Avoid bathing until the application site is dry
- Pregnant women should wear gloves during application
- Keep out of reach of children
Storage and Handling
- Store at or below 77°F (25°C)
- Protect from freezing
- Keep in original packaging until use
Veterinary Guidance
Profender is a prescription product, requiring an established veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Follow your vet’s instructions closely, and ensure your cat receives annual fecal exams to monitor for any signs of parasitic infection.
Profender vs. Other Worming Treatments
Unlike oral dewormers that may be difficult to administer, Profender’s topical form offers a hassle-free solution. It’s particularly ideal for cats who are anxious or resistant to pills.
Summary: Fast, Safe, and Effective
Profender starts working within hours of application, quickly removing internal parasites from your cat’s system. Its topical design ensures easier administration, and when used correctly, it provides reliable protection. While no treatment offers 100% prevention, Profender significantly reduces the risk of infection and zoonotic transmission to humans.
Consult your veterinarian to determine if Profender is right for your cat, especially in multi-pet or high-risk households.
