How Fast Does Profender Work to Deworm Your Cat?
Profender is a highly effective topical deworming solution formulated to treat and control intestinal parasites in cats. Its rapid action and ease of application make it a preferred option among veterinarians and pet owners alike. But just how fast does Profender start working? Let’s dive deeper into the timeline, effectiveness, and application of this innovative deworming treatment.
What Is Profender?
Profender is a combination of two active ingredients: emodepside and praziquantel. It comes in the form of a topical solution applied directly to the cat’s skin, offering a stress-free alternative to oral medications. It is FDA-approved and specifically indicated for use in cats and kittens at least 8 weeks old and weighing a minimum of 2.2 lbs (1 kg).
Profender's Rapid Action
One notable advantage of Profender is its quick onset of action. Once applied topically, the solution begins to absorb through the skin and enter the bloodstream. According to laboratory and field trials, Profender typically begins working shortly after application, effectively targeting and eliminating the most common feline intestinal parasites within a single dose.
Parasites targeted by Profender include:
- Hookworms – Ancylostoma tubaeforme (adult, immature adult, and fourth stage larvae)
- Roundworms – Toxocara cati (adult and fourth stage larvae)
- Tapeworms – Dipylidium caninum and Taenia taeniaeformis (adults)
Application and Dosage
Proper application is essential to ensure maximum efficacy and quick results. Profender comes in single-dose tubes with concentrations tailored to the cat’s weight (Small, Medium, Large). The application process includes:
- Choosing the appropriate tube based on the cat’s body weight.
- Opening the tube using the cap to break the seal.
- Parting the fur at the base of the neck and applying the full contents directly onto the skin.
It is crucial not to apply Profender to wet or broken skin and to prevent cats from licking the application site for at least one hour. In households with multiple pets, separation is recommended until the dosage fully dries.
How Soon Are Results Visible?
While Profender starts working almost immediately after application, parasite elimination can take a few days depending on the severity of the infestation. However, clinical studies have shown that a single dose is generally effective in clearing existing infections.
Reapplication Guidelines and Prevention
If reinfection occurs, another application of Profender can be administered after 30 days. Veterinarians typically recommend routine screenings, including annual fecal tests, to monitor for intestinal parasites and determine if additional treatments are necessary.
Benefits of Using Profender
- Convenient topical administration avoids the difficulty of pilling cats.
- Fast-acting formula starts to target parasites soon after application.
- Effective against multiple parasite types and life stages.
- Reduces the risk of zoonotic transmission of parasites to humans.
Precautions and Safety Information
Though Profender is deemed safe for healthy cats over 8 weeks old and 2.2 lbs in weight, it’s vital to follow guidance and warnings:
- Avoid in breeding, pregnant, or lactating cats as safety has not been established.
- Prevent contact with the cat’s eyes, mouth, or broken skin.
- Do not bathe the cat until the solution has fully dried.
- Pregnant women should wear gloves during application due to potential fetal effects noted in lab animals.
- Store at temperatures below 77°F (25°C) and protect from freezing.
Possible Side Effects
Most side effects are mild and self-resolving. These may include:
- Increased grooming or licking at the application site
- Vomiting and salivation if ingested orally
- Temporary hair loss or redness at the site
- Lethargy or behavioral changes
Contact a veterinarian if any extreme or persistent symptoms occur following treatment.
Veterinary Guidance and Best Practices
Profender is a prescription product, so a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship is necessary for purchasing. Always follow dosing instructions on the label and seek a vet’s advice regarding long-term parasite prevention strategies.
Conclusion
Profender offers a powerful and convenient method to protect your cat from intestinal worms. With a fast-acting single dose and simple topical application, it minimizes both effort and stress. When used as directed, Profender serves as a reliable tool in your cat’s overall parasite prevention plan.
