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Is deworming medicine safe for a cat nursing her newborn kittens?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | 14 lbs

My cat just had babies last night, but im worried she may have worms, she isn't throwing up and her stool is normal, but the other night I swear I saw a worm sticking out of her bottom. My question is: Is it safe to give a cat deworming medicine if shes nursing her babies?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Debi Matlack

Veterinary Technician

Published on May 8th, 2017

I recommend getting a stool sample tested by your vet to determine what kind of worms she may have. That way you know the right dewormer to get for what she may have, as there are different parasites that require different treatments. Most dewormers are safe for nursing mothers, but it's best to know what to treat for so you aren't giving her an unnecessary medication.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 17th, 2018

    The worm you saw was likely a tapeworm proglottid. This is not contagious to you or the kittens as the eggs of the tapeworm will only develop in a flea which then needs to be ingested by another cat or dog. So I would hold off for two weeks before worming so the kittens can handle any deworming medicine through the milk.

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