My cat has a tapeworm. Can I use OTC dewormer and what about the box?

Question

Hello. My cat is a rescue from 3 weeks ago, he was brought to the shelter and their vet said he had eaten a lizard. We did treatment for 2 nights. Weeks later- Last night my cat pooped and a very very long tapeworm came out with it. He had to have help passing it out of his body, some flew onto my door. Photos attached. No fleas present anywhere, thoroughly checked. Will be working all day next 3 days, can I get over the counter deworm for the time being? throw out litter and box too? Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 7 months and 30 days old

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

A dewormer containing praziquantel ( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/bayer-tapeworm-dewormer-tablets-for-cats ) will clear tapeworm infection. You may have to repeat the deworming in 2 weeks. After, you can submit a stool sample to your veterinarian to confirm resolution. Boots had to have ingested a flea at some point since that is how the tapeworm is passed. Fleas are the intermediate host. Treat him and the environment for fleas just to be safe. Treat for 3 consecutive months, preferably year round, with an oral or topical flea preventative. Wash all bedding and vacuum everywhere. Use an area treatment as well.

My cat has a tapeworm. Can I use OTC dewormer and what about the box?

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