Drontal Cat by Bayer/Elanco is a worming tablet for cats with two active ingredients: each tablet contains 230 mg of pyrantel and 20 mg of praziquantel. Pyrantel acts on roundworms (Toxocara, hookworms) and praziquantel on tapeworms (Dipylidium, Echinococcus, Taenia). One tablet covers 4 kg of body weight and is given once, with food or directly into the mouth. The tablet is scored in half, so it's easy to split for kittens and small cats. Preventive treatment is given at least 4 times a year. The pack holds 24 tablets: 3 blisters of 8.
What it is and who makes it
Drontal was developed by Bayer and is now made by Elanco (Germany). It's a classic feline dewormer, long used by vets and suitable for routine treatment. The 24-tablet pack suits breeders and multi-cat homes, or lasts one cat several years.
Ingredients and dosing
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Pyrantel (embonate) | 230 mg per tablet |
| Praziquantel | 20 mg per tablet |
| Dose | 1 tablet per 4 kg, once |
| 2 kg cat | ½ tablet |
| 4 kg cat | 1 tablet |
| 6 kg cat | 1½ tablets |
How to give a cat a tablet
- Hide the tablet in a piece of meat, mince or a spoonful of wet food — many cats eat it without noticing.
- You can crush the tablet and mix it into a small portion of favourite food.
- If your cat refuses: gently open its mouth, place the tablet at the back of the tongue, close the mouth and stroke the throat until it swallows.
- A pill popper — a plastic syringe-like tool — places the tablet right at the back of the tongue.
- Afterwards give a little water or wet food and praise your cat.
Pros
- Roundworms and tapeworms. Two ingredients cover the main intestinal worms of cats.
- Single dose. One dose is enough for routine treatment.
- Easy to split. The score line allows accurate dosing for kittens and small cats.
- No fasting. It can be given with food.
- Long shelf life. The pack lasts a long time.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- It has to be swallowed. Some cats resist strongly — then a spot-on is easier.
- Large pack. For one cat, 24 tablets last several years; watch the expiry date.
- No flea cover. Fleas spread the flea tapeworm, so treat your cat for fleas too.
- Special situations. Pregnant, nursing and sick cats only in agreement with a vet.
How often to give it
The manufacturer recommends preventive treatment at least 4 times a year, plus before vaccination, mating and 10 days before giving birth. For outdoor cats that hunt, a vet may advise more frequent treatment. More on signs and scheduling in worms in cats and dogs.
If your cat won't take tablets
For cats that spit out every tablet and scratch, there's an alternative — a spot-on dewormer. Read about it in our Profender review. If you do need to give a tablet, practise in advance: give your cat treats in the same “wrapping” you'll later hide the tablet in.
Who it suits
Cats and kittens needing routine deworming, multi-cat homes and breeders who benefit from the large pack. Don't forget flea protection — see fleas on cats. All products are in parasite control.
Verdict
Drontal Cat is a proven classic against roundworms and tapeworms: one tablet per 4 kg, a single dose and a handy score line. The key is regular use, at least 4 times a year, together with flea control.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Drontal tablets should a cat get?
One tablet per 4 kg; a 2 kg cat gets half.
How often should Drontal be given?
For prevention, at least 4 times a year, and before vaccination and mating.
Should my cat eat before the tablet?
No fasting is needed; it can be given with food.
Can kittens have Drontal?
Yes, the dose is calculated by weight; check the minimum age in the leaflet.
What if my cat spits the tablet out?
If you saw the whole tablet come out, give it again. If you're unsure how much was swallowed, ask your vet.
Can I give Drontal Cat to a dog?
No, dogs have Drontal Plus with a different composition and dosing.
