Persian Cat Deworming: What I Tell Every New Kitten Parent

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The Hidden Side of Owning a Persian Cat

When families come to pick up their Persian kitten from me, their first questions are usually about grooming, feeding, and personality. But very quickly, the topic of deworming comes up. And honestly? I’m glad it does.

Because even the fluffiest, most pampered Persian can pick up worms. It’s not glamorous to talk about, but it’s one of those non-negotiables in Persian cat health. If you’ve ever wondered: “Does my indoor kitten really need deworming?” the answer is yes. And I’ll tell you why, straight from my own breeding program and years of working with other CFA and TICA Persian breeders across the U.S.


Why I Take Persian Cat Deworming So Seriously

I’ve raised Persians for many years now, and one thing I’ve learned is that worms don’t care how spotless your house is. Kittens can get them from their mother, from grooming themselves, or even from fleas.

The impact?

  • A kitten that doesn’t gain weight the way their littermates do.
  • A coat that should be silky but looks dull instead.
  • Little ones that sleep more than they should, or worse, struggle with diarrhea.

When you’ve held as many kittens as I have, you can spot the difference in their energy right away. Deworming keeps them strong, playful, and thriving — and it saves new owners a lot of stress down the road.


The Worms I Watch For in Persians

Most new kitten owners are surprised to hear there are different types of worms. The most common ones I’ve had to deal with are:

  • Roundworms – Very common in kittens. I’ve seen entire litters affected.
  • Tapeworms – Usually from fleas (yet another reason flea prevention is a must).
  • Hookworms – Nasty little things that can cause anemia.
  • Whipworms – Rare, but I’ve heard of cases from breeder friends.

Breeder Tip: If you’re taking home a kitten, ask your breeder for a full deworming record. A reputable breeder will have already started the process — but you’ll need to continue it at home.


My Recommended Deworming Schedule for Persian Cats

Here’s what I follow in my own cattery and what I recommend to every family who adopts from me:

For Persian Kittens

  • 2–12 weeks old – Deworm every 2 weeks (I start this before kittens even leave my home).
  • 12 weeks – 6 months – Deworm monthly. Kittens’ immune systems are still developing.
  • After 6 months – Transition to an adult schedule.

For Adult Persian Cats

  • Deworm every 3–6 months, depending on lifestyle.
  • Even indoor-only Persians should be checked yearly by a vet.

How I Deworm My Persians (and What I Tell New Owners)

  • Always vet-approved meds. I don’t gamble with over-the-counter “cheap fixes.”
  • Weight matters. I weigh kittens before giving anything — a tiny miscalculation can cause tummy upset.
  • Forms vary. Some of my kittens do better with liquid, while others take tablets tucked into a soft treat.
  • Flea control is non-negotiable. If you skip flea prevention, you’ll likely face tapeworms later.

Breeder Story: I once had a kitten who spit out his liquid dose three times in a row. After that, I started printing a “kitten care guide” for families that includes my little tricks (like gently wrapping them in a towel burrito-style). New owners thank me every time.


Preventing Worms in Persian Cats

Deworming is half the battle. Prevention is the other half. Here’s what I recommend as a breeder:

  • Scoop and disinfect litter boxes daily.
  • Groom your Persian regularly — worms can hitchhike on fur and paws.
  • Stick to premium commercial diets (no raw meat).
  • Keep fleas off your Persian at all costs.
  • Schedule vet wellness exams, even if your cat “looks fine.”

For coat maintenance tips that tie into health, don’t miss my full Persian Cat Grooming Guide. A clean coat and clean paws reduce parasite risks more than most people realize.


Supporting Your Persian After Deworming

Kittens especially may need a little extra TLC after treatment. I usually suggest:

  • Adding probiotics to help with digestion.
  • Serving easily digestible food for a few days.
  • Offering omega-rich supplements to boost coat recovery.
  • Keeping fresh water available at all times.

When It’s Time to Call the Vet

If your Persian shows any of these signs, don’t wait:

  • Worms visible in vomit or stool
  • Severe vomiting or diarrhea
  • Refusal to eat or drink
  • Gums turning pale
  • Sudden lethargy

Trust me: I’ve seen how quickly kittens can go downhill when worms are left unchecked. Immediate vet care can make all the difference.


Trusted Sources I Lean On


FAQs (Speech Bubble Style)

Q: Do indoor Persian cats really need deworming?

A: Yes. Eggs and fleas ride in on shoes, clothes, or visitors. Indoor Persians still benefit from a regular Persian cat deworming schedule and yearly fecal checks.

Q: How often should I deworm my Persian kitten?

A: Every 2 weeks from 2–12 weeks old, then monthly until 6 months. After that, follow the adult schedule (every 3–6 months).

Q: Are natural remedies enough for Persian cat deworming?

A: Not by themselves. Pumpkin seeds and herbs may support digestion, but only vet-approved dewormers fully clear parasites.

Q: What side effects should I expect after deworming?

A: Mild tummy upset or softer stool for a day is common. If vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy lasts beyond 24 hours, call your vet.

Q: How does grooming help prevent worms in long-haired cats?

A: Clean paws and a tangle-free belly reduce the chance of ingesting eggs. See my Persian Cat Grooming Guide for routines and tools.