Worming my Diabetic Cat

by Lee
(Australia)

I have 12 cats, one of whom is diabetic. Yesterday I wormed the other cats with 1 Drontal tablet per 6 kg cat.

Is it safe to worm Smudge too? She is on 1 unit Lantus each morning and weighs about 4.4 kg. The nearest Vet to where I live is 500 km away. If it is safe to worm her with Drontal, do I give the normal 1 tablet dose and is there a time that is better in relation to her Insulin shot?

Dear Lee,

I do not feel comfortable answering that question. In general, yes it would be safe for a diabetic cat to be dewormed. In fact, it would be safer for a diabetic cat to be dewormed than to live with worms.

However, I cannot examine your cat and I cannot know enough about her particular circumstances to make a recommendation.

Obviously, you have a vet or you wouldn't have a diagnosis of diabetes and have insulin. Could you call your vet on the phone instead of driving to his office? That is what my clients would do. If your veterinarian has seen your cat within a reasonable time, he should be able to tell you what to do and should be happy to take your phone call.

Good luck and thank you for writing.

Best Regards,
Dr. Neely