Welcoming a new feline friend into your home is an exciting time, but it also comes with responsibilities, including ensuring their health and well-being. Parasitic infections are a common concern for cat owners, and prompt treatment is crucial. Profender®, a topical dewormer, offers a convenient solution for managing common intestinal parasites in cats and kittens. This article delves into what Profender® is, how it works, its proper application, potential side effects, and important storage information, drawing from expert veterinary knowledge.
What is Profender®?
Profender® is a liquid parasiticide designed for topical application to a cat’s skin. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of tapeworm, hookworm, and roundworm infections in kittens and cats that are at least 8 weeks old and weigh 2.2 pounds or more. This topical formulation offers an alternative to oral medications, potentially easing the deworming process for both pets and owners.
How Profender® Works
The efficacy of Profender® lies in its two active ingredients: emodepside and praziquantel. Emodepside functions by disrupting the neurotransmitters within the worms’ nervous systems, leading to paralysis and eventual death. While the exact mechanism of praziquantel is not fully understood, it is believed to damage the parasites’ muscle integrity, also causing paralysis. The deceased worms are then naturally eliminated from the cat’s body, either through defecation or digestion within the gastrointestinal tract.
Profender® Application and Directions
It is essential to follow your veterinarian’s instructions or the directions provided on the drug label meticulously. Your vet will determine the correct dosage based on your cat’s specific weight.
To administer Profender®, part your cat’s fur at the nape of the neck until the skin is visible. Apply the entire contents of the tube directly onto the exposed skin. Avoid applying the medication to wet fur or on any irritated or broken skin. It is crucial to prevent your pets from licking the application site for at least one hour after application to ensure proper absorption and prevent ingestion. For households with children, it is advised that they avoid contact with the treated area for 24 hours to prevent accidental ingestion while the product is being absorbed.
Missed Dose
Profender® is typically administered as a single, one-time treatment. However, if re-infection occurs, your veterinarian may recommend a repeat application after 30 days.
Profender® Possible Side Effects
While generally well-tolerated, some side effects can occur with Profender® use. If another pet in the household licks the treated area, they may experience vomiting and drooling.
Common side effects in cats after normal application include:
- Excessive licking or grooming of the application site
- Irritation or scratching at the application site
- Drooling
- Lethargy or lack of energy
- Hair loss at the application site
- Agitation
- Vomiting
Contact your veterinarian immediately if:
- Severe side effects are observed.
- Your pet’s condition does not improve or worsens.
- You suspect an overdose.
- You have any other concerns about the medication’s use.
Human Side Effects
Profender® is not approved for human use. Accidental ingestion by a human requires immediate medical attention or contacting the national Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222. Topical exposure may cause skin reactions in some individuals. Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after applying the medication. Pregnant individuals are advised to wear gloves during application.
Profender® Overdose Information
An overdose of Profender® is unlikely to cause severe harm, but symptoms such as drooling, tremors, and lethargy may occur. If the medication is accidentally administered orally, a pet may exhibit drooling, vomiting, muscle tremors, or difficulty walking. In case of suspected oral or topical overdose, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center promptly.
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
Profender® Storage
Store Profender® at room temperature, below 77°F (25°C), and do not allow it to freeze. Keep the container tightly closed to protect it from moisture and light. Always refer to the product label for specific storage requirements. Ensure the medication is kept out of reach of children and pets.
Profender® FAQs
How long does Profender® take to work in cats?
Profender® begins its action within approximately 24 to 48 hours to treat hookworm, roundworm, and tapeworm infections. You may or may not observe worms in your pet’s stool following treatment.
How often should cats receive Profender®?
A single topical dose of Profender® is effective for treating hookworm, roundworm, and tapeworm. Due to the life cycle of tapeworms, your veterinarian might suggest a second dose about 30 days after the initial application.
The content in this article is derived from publicly available sources and manufacturer information. It has been reviewed by veterinary professionals but should not replace professional veterinary advice.
References
- PetMD. Profender®.
