Why is my cat still lethargic and coughing after tapeworm treatment?

A side effect of the deworming treatment can be lethargy, which would be due to the vomiting and the movement of dead worms through Leo's intestinal system. This should pass in another 24 hours, but if it doesn't, I would have him seen by a vet for a heath check.

Poor Garfield! Tapeworms do not usually cause any significant weight loss or other symptoms in cats, so I would be very concerned that Garfield has a more serious problem. I would recommend taking him to the vet for an exam when you are able to. He/she can do some diagnostic testing (blood work and x-rays) if needed to help determine what's wrong, and will get him started on appropriate treatment depending on what is found.

Some kittens will become lethargic if there is a high worm burden in their intestines. The sudden death of a large number of worms can slow things down in their GI tract and cause discomfort. If she goes longer than 24 hours without food, or is seen having vomiting or diarrhea, then Tessa should be re-evaluated by your vet.

I would recommend taking Toby to another veterinarian if you are not comfortable with your veterinarian's diagnosis and treatment. If the stuff that is stuck to his anus looks like little bits of rice it could be tapeworms. Only certain dewormers will help with these worms. So it depends on what dewormer was given to say if it worked or not. Also tapeworms are caused by them eating fleas at some point. I would talk with friends and neighbors to see what veterinarians in your area people recommend. I hope Toby feels better soon and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

I would call your vet with this update. I would not expect these symptoms in a normal cat with tapeworms. Occasionally, in pets with a really large worm burden, the dying worms can cause a blockage in the intestines. The vet should be able to help you decide if Christina needs to be re-evaluated.

Hello, sorry to hear about Echo. Yes, lungworms in cats can cause a severe cough. To treat these, you have to deworm your kitten potentially more than once. You may need to do another fecal test to confirm the presence of worms. Have Echo evaluated by your veterinarian and bring a stool sample with you to have her tested for lung worms. Other causes of this may include feline asthma, pneumonia, or even bronchitis. Echo may need repeat x-rays as well. Hope this helps and best of luck.

This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection and possibly fever (causing lethargy). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.