If your pregnant kitty develops a case of the runs, you might be inclined to write her digestive issues off to morning sickness. Even if she is "with kittens," something else may be causing diarrhea and possible weight loss. She should see the vet and medication might be prescribed.
What is Panacur
Panacur is the commercial name for a drug used to treat cats for gastrointestinal parasites. Known by the generic name "fenbendazole," the drug is available without a prescription and is commonly recommended for cats who have giardia, a parasite that can be transmitted through the stool of infected animals or if your kitty drinks water from a stream or pond that contains the parasite.
Safe for Momma Cat
If your vet wants to treat your cat with Panacur, your first concern should be for her and her kittens' health. No need to worry with this drug, though. According to Vet Info, Panacur is safe for pregnant cats and is even effective in preventing giardia from spreading to her kittens.
Use for Treatment
Panacur is available in a suspension, as a paste or in granules. Although it is available over the counter, you should always consult with your vet before giving Panacur or any medication to your cat. The vet will be the best person to recommend which form of Panacur you should treat momma kitty with, as well as advise on the dosage to give her. Your vet may also have you treat the kittens after they've been born as a preventative measure, just in case the giardia was passed on to them.
Zoonotic Concerns with Giardia
Giardia can be passed on to humans if proper care isn't taken to reduce that risk. The Healthy Pet website lists hand-to-eye and hand-to-mouth contact as a common way that zoonotic disease can be transmitted from a pet to a human. Washing hands is the single most effective thing you can do to prevent the parasite from spreading from an infected kitty to the rest of the family. Bleach and ammonia will kill the giardia parasite on surfaces, so keeping your house sanitary is an additional precaution you can take. Also, treat your infected pregnant kitty until the Panacur is gone or for as long as the vet has prescribed, even if she starts feeling better and her symptoms dissipate. Doing so will ensure the giardia parasites are entirely removed.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.
References
Writer Bio
Elle Di Jensen has been a writer and editor since 1990. She began working in the fitness industry in 1987, and her experience includes editing and publishing a workout manual. She has an extended family of pets, including special needs animals. Jensen attended Idaho and Boise State Universities. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications.