Are tapeworms an emergency?

Hi! My cat threw up a tapeworm (maybe about 3” long) in his food yesterday. He hasn’t thrown up since, and I don’t know if this is worth noting, but he’s still the same weight as last year. I’ve been trying to communicate with different vets in my area but they’re closed for Easter weekend so my only option is the emergency clinic that is super expensive...so honestly I’m trying to avoid going to the emergency unless it’s an emergency. Would this count as one? Should I rush him over there asap or can I wait to make an appointment at my vet? Also, my veterinarian prescribed me Miblemax dewormer since he goes outside. I was told to give it to him every three months and my date to give it to him was actually coming up in a few weeks. Would it be wise to give him the tablet now? Thank you for your help.

Hello!   It can be pretty distressing when your cat coughs up a huge tapeworm!  How is your cat?  If they are well and eating / drinking / urinating / deafecating / breathing normally, then you don't need to present as an emergency.  Cats also get roundworms (nematodes), so you may want to check that you have correctly identified this one (I think the drug company's website may be a good source of information for owners in this case).   Interesting, tapeworms don't have the effect of a cats' weight that one imagines, needing relatively little food themselves, but in moderate worm cases I have seen cats, particularly youngsters, having a swollen tummy.  You should always check drug use with the label, and if any different to label use then contact your vet.  However, Milbemycin can often be given a week for so early so it's well worth making that phone-call.  It probably goes without saying, but make sure that you wash your hands extremely well.  All the best!

Sorry - you already mentioned that your vet is closed and there is an emergency clinic operating.  In this case, give them a call to be triaged - that's where they ask questions and decide how important it is that you are seen.  Unless they're extremely busy, the vet or nurse may well be happy to advise you about the Milbemax tablet over the phone.

Hi Liz, Thank you so much for your help!! I’ll give the emergency a call about the Milbemax.