Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat has parasites! How do I protect myself until treatment?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I need help pleasee!!! I just found out my cat has parasites!! I saw them!! Am freaking out. please help! Watch should I do mean while? Til I get my paycheck on monday!??? Please I I really need help he sleeps with me and I don't want to get it.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 22nd, 2017

I'm assuming you mean your cat has intestinal worms. That requires a deworming treatment which you can get OTC, and I recommend getting him Panacur. It's available at a pet store. He will need another deworming treatment two weeks after the first one to kill all the worms. Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after handing him and cleaning his litter box to prevent you from getting them. In terms of sleeping with you, it's fine for him to sleep with you as you can only get the worms if you accidentally ingested contaminated feces. If you are talking about fleas, I can give you a flea treatment program for him. First, I would give him Capstar. It's a one time pill that starts killing fleas within 30 minutes. Then follow up with a spot on treatment, such as Advantage or Revolution. This is a treatment that has to be used once a month. You will also have to disinfect the environment. Wash his bedding in hot soapy water, and vacuum the furniture and carpet surfaces. You can use a spray to kill fleas in the house, such as Indorex, or a flea bomb would work well to kill the fleas in the home.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This is a very common situation, parasites on feces or skin (most likely fleas) won't be a problem for you but I would suggest not to have him in your room. Both of them are easily treatable, so don't worry, he will be fine.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why do my hermit crab's mites keep returning? How to get rid of them?
Is your hermit crab battling recurring mites? A certified veterinarian explains why these persistent mites keep coming back and how to effectively address them. Get expert advice!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Found a worm in my new chick's water dish. Is it a parasite?
Concerned about a worm in your new chick's water dish? A certified vet discusses possible parasites and recommends a fecal exam for your young chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored