Fenbendazole is a de-worming medication that can remove parasites, such as lungworms and roundworms in gerbils, dogs, and other pets. It is available over-the-counter in different forms and should only be given exactly as directed by a veterinarian for effective parasite removal. It is generally well-received in animals and rarely leads to side effects and allergic reactions. People should be cautious while treating animals with parasites because certain animal parasites can infect humans.
Fenbendazole treatment can effectively remove whipworms, roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms in dogs. This medication is also used to remove various tapeworms, roundworms, pancreatic flukes, and roundworms in cats, and it can remove pinworms and other specific parasites in smaller mammals including rats, mice, rabbits, and hamsters. Veterinarians also often recommend this medication to remove parasites in many amphibians, reptiles, and birds.
A veterinarian will determine the proper fenbendazole dosage regimen for a specific pet’s needs. This medication can usually be given with food at the beginning of a meal. In most cases, this medication needs to be taken for several consecutive days to effectively remove most parasites. The average daily dose of this medication is 25 milligrams per pound of body weight.
Manufacturers offer different forms of fenbendazole. It is available in a loose, granulated form with 222 milligrams fenbendazole in each gram of material, and there is also a 222 milligram-per-gram liquid suspension form of this medication. A paste form of this medication with 100 milligrams of fenbendazole per gram is also available.
Pets generally will not experience many side effects while taking this medication. Vomiting is one rare side effect linked with fenbendazole. Birds may develop bone marrow suspension while taking this medication, which can lead to a low red and white blood cell count. In laboratory rats, it has shown to promote the growth of liver tumors.
Some pets may experience an allergic reaction to this de-wormer. Possible allergic reactions to this medication include pale gums, cold limbs, hives, and facial swelling. Pet owners should contact their veterinarian immediately if they find their pets experiencing adverse reactions to this particular medication.
Certain intestinal parasites including hookworms are zoonotic. This means that these parasites can easily pass from an infected animal to a human. A person should consult a veterinarian or their physician for information on the most effective methods of preventing human infection while living with and treating pets with parasites.