Help! My Cat Ate Praziquantel! (Vet Answered)

Chavonne, I understand how concerning it can be when a pet accidentally ingests medication not meant for them. The good news is that Praziquantel is commonly used to treat tapeworms in both dogs and cats, but the dosage and formulation can vary between species. If Milo consumed a small amount of the dog version of only Praziquantel he is likely safe. The main concern here would be the potential toxicity from a high dose. According to a study published in the Parasitology International Journal, a dose of up to 40mg per kg (18.14mg per lb) is safe for cats and while we typically work with lower dosages to treat susceptible parasites, this is a good reference for Milo’s case. If Milo ingested significantly more than that there is an increased risk of adverse effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, excessive salivation, or, in high doses, neurological issues like tremors or incoordination. If you are unsure how much he ingested or if he shows any of these concerning signs, it is best to seek veterinary guidance immediately.

Likewise, if there is other drug mixed in with the Praziquantel for dog formulation, you need to consult a vet. If the product contained additional drugs know that several of the commonly used multidrug formulations have drugs that are considered toxic to cats, if that is the case, urgent veterinary care may be necessary—even if Milo seems fine now. If you’re unsure about the formulation, checking the packaging or calling a tele-triage veterinary service can help assess the risk. If Milo develops any concerning signs, please don’t wait, in-person veterinary care is your safest option. I hope Milo is doing well.

This article is a part of our weekly Ask Dr. Paola series