Cestal Cat by Ceva is a liver-flavoured worming tablet for cats. It contains praziquantel against tapeworms and pyrantel embonate against roundworms. The dose is 1 tablet per 4 kg of body weight (5 mg praziquantel and 57.5 mg pyrantel per kg). No fasting is needed: give it with food or directly into the mouth. For prevention, give a single dose every three months; with a heavy infestation, repeat after 14 days. Kittens can have it from 3 months of age. The pack holds 8 tablets.
What it is and who makes it
Cestal Cat is made by the French company Ceva. Its key feature is a liver flavouring, thanks to which many cats eat the tablet on their own or in a piece of food. Praziquantel damages the tapeworm's outer layer and paralyses it, pyrantel paralyses roundworms, and the dead parasites are passed naturally.
Which worms it treats
| Group | Parasites |
|---|---|
| Roundworms | Toxocara cati, Toxascaris leonina, Ancylostoma tubaeforme, Uncinaria stenocephala |
| Tapeworms | Dipylidium caninum, Taenia taeniaeformis and other Taenia, Echinococcus |
Dosing and schedule
| Cat weight | Tablets |
|---|---|
| Up to 2 kg | ½ |
| 2–4 kg | 1 |
| 4–6 kg | 1½ |
| 6–8 kg | 2 |
- Prevention — a single dose every 3 months.
- Treatment — a single dose; with a heavy infestation, repeat after 14 days.
- Kittens — from 3 months.
How to give the tablet
- Offer it like a treat — thanks to the liver flavour many cats eat it themselves.
- If not, hide it in a piece of meat or a spoonful of pâté.
- If needed, place it at the back of the tongue and stroke the throat.
- Make sure your cat swallowed the whole dose.
Pros
- Liver flavour. Easier to give — many cats eat it voluntarily.
- Broad spectrum. Roundworms and tapeworms, including Echinococcus.
- No fasting. Can be given any time with food.
- Clear schedule. 1 tablet per 4 kg, every three months.
- Low toxicity. According to the manufacturer, no embryotoxic effects at recommended doses.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- From 3 months. Younger kittens need other products — ask your vet.
- No flea cover. Combine deworming with flea treatment.
- Restrictions. Not for weak or sick animals or those sensitive to the ingredients.
- 8-tablet pack. For one cat that's a 1–2-year supply.
Preparing your cat for vaccination
Cats should always be dewormed before vaccination, usually 10–14 days beforehand. Worms weaken immunity, so the body builds protection less well after the vaccine. Note the deworming date in your calendar to plan the vaccination day. More on scheduling in worms in cats and dogs and vaccinations for puppies and kittens.
Who it suits
Cats that are hard to give an ordinary tablet but happily eat meaty food; routine quarterly deworming. If your cat won't eat tablets in any form, drops are an option — read our Profender review. All products are in parasite control.
Verdict
Cestal Cat is a convenient liver-flavoured dewormer: broad spectrum, clear dosing and no fasting. It's suitable for kittens from 3 months, and with a heavy infestation the dose is repeated after two weeks.
Are cat worms dangerous to people
Some feline worms can infect humans, above all Toxocara and Echinococcus. Parasite eggs end up in soil, sandpits and the animal's fur, and from there on hands. Small children who put their hands in their mouths are especially vulnerable. So regular deworming of your cat also protects your family. Wash your hands after cleaning the litter box, remove faeces promptly, don't let an outdoor cat sleep on pillows, and don't feed it raw meat or fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Cestal Cat given?
1 tablet per 4 kg, once, with food or directly into the mouth.
Does the dose need repeating?
For prevention, every 3 months; with a heavy infestation, again after 14 days.
From what age can kittens have it?
From 3 months of age.
Is fasting required?
No, the tablet can be given at any time.
How does Cestal Cat differ from Drontal?
Both contain praziquantel and pyrantel. Cestal Cat is liver-flavoured and comes in packs of 8, while Drontal comes in packs of 24. More in our Drontal review.
Can I give Cestal Cat to a dog?
No, dogs have a separate product, Cestal Plus, with different dosing.
