How often should a kitten be treated for fleas and worms?

How often should a kitten be treated for fleas and worms? - briefly

Flea protection should begin as soon as the kitten is adopted and be continued with a monthly preventative. Deworming is administered at 2–3 weeks of age, repeated every two weeks until three months old, then continued on a monthly schedule.

How often should a kitten be treated for fleas and worms? - in detail

Kittens require a systematic preventative plan to keep ectoparasites and internal parasites at bay. The schedule begins shortly after birth and continues through the first year, adjusting as the animal matures.

• Flea prevention

  • Start at 8 weeks of age with a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral product.
  • Apply or administer every 4 weeks until the kitten reaches 6 months.
  • Continue monthly treatment for life, especially if the cat has outdoor access or lives in a flea‑infested environment.

• Intestinal worm control

  • First deworming dose at 2–3 weeks of age, using a broad‑spectrum anthelmintic.
  • Repeat every 2 weeks until the kitten is 8 weeks old.
  • Administer a third dose at 12 weeks, then switch to a monthly regimen until 6 months of age.
  • After 6 months, maintain a quarterly schedule, or follow a vet‑directed plan based on fecal examinations.

Regular veterinary examinations are essential. At each visit, the practitioner should:

1. Verify that flea products are still appropriate for the kitten’s weight and health status.
2. Perform fecal tests to detect current worm infestations.
3. Adjust dosages as the kitten grows, ensuring safety and efficacy.

Consistent adherence to these intervals minimizes the risk of infestation, protects the kitten’s development, and reduces the chance of transmission to humans and other pets.