Worming Schedule for Puppies, Dogs, Kittens and Cats

Published on: 5/15/2025

Key Takeaways

Puppies and kittens should be dewormed every two weeks until three months old, then monthly until six months, following AVP guidelines. After six months, begin adult protocols and use a heartworm preventive that also covers hookworms and roundworms.
Adult dogs and cats require regular deworming based on their parasite exposure, and breeding females should be treated before mating, at birthing and while nursing.
Newly acquired pets should be dewormed immediately, again in two weeks and then placed on the standard schedule.
Over the counter options such as Nemex-2 for dogs and Drontal Tablets for cats treat common worms, while prescription products like Droncit, Panacur and Drontal Plus offer broader protection.
Flea control is essential because fleas transmit tapeworms, and both the pet and environment must be treated to break the cycle.

Worms are probably one of the most common ailments of puppies and kittens but can be cured. Hookworms and roundworms are the most common worms found in puppies and kittens. This is a guide for deworming as recommended by the American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists.

Puppies:

- Every 2 weeks until 3 months of age, starting at 2 weeks old
- Once a month from 3 to 6 months of age
- After 6 months, follow adult recommendations. Also after six months, use a heartworm preventative medication that is effective against hookworms and roundworms.

Kittens:

- Every 2 weeks until 3 months of age, starting at 3 weeks old
- Once a month from 3 to 6 months of age
- After 6 months, follow adult recommendations.

Adult Dogs and Cats

- Treat regularly, taking into consideration the exposure to parasites.

Bitches and Queens

- Once prior to mating Once at birthing Lactacting bitches and queens should be treated concurrently with puppies and kittens.

Newly Acquired Animals

- Obtain the deworming schedule from the previous owner. Worm immediately, then repeat after 2 weeks, then follow the listed guidelines.

There are several products which can be purchased without a prescription. Nemex-2 for dogs will be effective for roundworm and hookworm in dogs. Drontal Tablets for Cats will work for treating tapeworm, roundworm and hookworm in cats. It is always a good idea to consult with and have your puppy or kitten checked by your veterinarian.

There are several prescription items, Droncit Canine, Panacur Granules, Drontal Plus Taste Tabs for Dogs and Drontal Plus Tablets for Dogs which can be recommended. After your puppy or kitten reaches the appropriate age, there are a number of products which can be prescribed or purchased over the counter, such as Safe-Guard Canine Dewormer which need to be taken monthly to prevent a parasite affecting your puppy or kitten. This is only a partial listing of products used for treating worms infecting your pet.

It is also important to treat your dog for fleas. Fleas are a vector for the tapeworm. They can carry the tapeworm form one host to the next. Be sure to treat your pet for fleas on your pet and also treat your pet’s environment for fleas. See Control Fleas in 3 Easy Steps.

Whether for horse, livestock, or pet, Valley Vet Supply is your one-stop shop for trusted care. Explore more of our pet category at ValleyVet.com