As a pet owner, you always want the best for your furry friend. Part of that is making sure they stay healthy and parasite-free. But with so many different types of medications out there, it can be confusing to know which ones can be given together. In this article, we’ll explore whether it’s safe to give your pet dewormer and Heartgard at the same time.
Dewormer and Heartgard are two different types of medications that can help keep your pet healthy. Dewormer is used to kill intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. Heartgard, on the other hand, is a monthly chewable tablet that helps prevent heartworm disease, as well as roundworm and hookworm infections.
If you’re wondering whether you can give both these medications at the same time, the answer is yes!
However, as with any medication, it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions and dosages carefully to ensure your pet is getting the appropriate treatment.
Let’s dig into the details…
Why should you give your pet dewormer and Heartgard at the same time?
As mentioned earlier, dewormer and Heartgard are effective medications that work differently to help keep your pet healthy. Heartgard protects against heartworm disease while also treating and controlling hookworm and roundworm infections. Dewormer, meanwhile, is designed to kill intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms.
When used together, you can ensure your pet is receiving complete protection against a range of parasites that can harm their health. Parasites can affect your pet’s overall health and well-being, and are especially concerning for puppies and kittens.
By giving dewormer and Heartgard at the same time, you can help prevent these parasites from taking hold in your pet in the first place, and ensure that any existing parasitic infections are treated effectively.
When should you give dewormer and Heartgard to your pet?
It’s best to administer dewormer and Heartgard at the same time every month, ideally on the same day. This helps prevent infestations and keeps your pet protected year-round. Most vets recommend starting Heartgard at 8 weeks of age, and deworming every 2-3 months until your pet is 6 months old. After that, you can stick to a monthly schedule.
It’s important to note that if your pet already has a parasitic infection, you should wait until that infection is treated and gone before starting Heartgard. You don’t want to overload your pet’s system with medications, and using both medications simultaneously without first treating an existing infection can cause complications.
It’s also worth noting that certain breeds, like Collies and Shelties, can be sensitive to certain types of dewormers and Heartgard. Be sure to discuss any potential risks with your veterinarian if you have concerns.
How should you give dewormer and Heartgard to your pet?
Dewormer usually comes in a tablet or liquid form, and is usually administered orally. Most dewormers require a single dose, but some may need to be given for several days in a row. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow the recommended dosage for your pet’s weight and age.
Heartgard, too, is administered orally, usually in the form of a chewable tablet. It’s important to follow the instructions on the packaging and to give the appropriate dosage for your pet’s weight and age.
If your pet has trouble taking medications, you can try giving the tablets with food to make them more palatable. For especially finicky pets, you can also try wrapping the tablet in a treat or a piece of cheese to make it more appealing.
What are the potential side effects of dewormer and Heartgard?
As with any medication, dewormer and Heartgard come with a small risk of side effects. However, these side effects are usually mild and short-lived.
Some common side effects of dewormer include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. These symptoms usually go away on their own and don’t require any additional treatment. If you notice any severe or persistent symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian right away.
Heartgard can also cause some mild side effects, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. These symptoms are usually self-limiting and go away on their own.
Can dewormer and Heartgard be given to pregnant or nursing pets?
Dewormer and Heartgard can both be given to pregnant or nursing pets, but you should always consult with your veterinarian first. Certain medications may be contraindicated in pregnant or nursing pets, so it’s important to get your vet’s approval before starting any new medications.
If your pet is pregnant, your veterinarian may also recommend a different deworming schedule to ensure optimal health for both the mother and her offspring.
What are the signs of parasitic infection in pets?
Parasitic infections can be difficult to spot, as many pets don’t show any obvious symptoms. However, some signs to watch out for include:
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- weight loss
- abdominal pain
- poor coat condition
- coughing (in cases of heartworm infection)
If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dewormer and Heartgard can safely be given to your pet at the same time. In fact, using both medications together can help ensure complete protection against a range of parasites, helping to keep your pet healthy and happy for years to come.
As always, it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions and dosages carefully, and to watch out for any potential side effects or signs of parasitic infection in your pet. By taking these steps, you can help keep your pet healthy and parasite-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to some of the most common questions about giving dewormer and Heartgard at the same time:
- Can dewormer and Heartgard be given at the same time? Yes, it’s safe to give your pet dewormer and Heartgard at the same time, as long as you follow your veterinarian’s instructions and dosages carefully.
- When should you give dewormer and Heartgard? It’s best to give both medications on the same day every month to ensure continuous protection against parasites.
- How should you give dewormer and Heartgard? Both medications are usually administered orally in tablet form, and should be given according to your pet’s weight and age.
- What are the potential side effects of dewormer and Heartgard? Both medications can cause mild side effects like vomiting and diarrhea, but these usually go away on their own.
- Can dewormer and Heartgard be given to pregnant or nursing pets? Yes, but you should always consult with your veterinarian first to ensure the medications are safe.
- What are the signs of parasitic infection in pets? Parasitic infections can cause symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
References
1. MSD Veterinary Manual. Heartworm Disease in Dogs. https://www.msdvetmanual.com/dog-owners/brain,-spinal-cord,-and-nerve-disorders-of-dogs/heartworm-disease-in-dogs
2. American Kennel Club. When Should I Start Heartworm Prevention for My Puppy? https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/heartworm-prevention-for-puppies/
3. PetMD. Deworming and Elimination of Tapeworms in Dogs. https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/deworming-and-elimination-tapeworms-dogs