Cestem

Cestem flavour  and Cestem flavour XL  are broad spectrum worming tablets which kill every type of intestinal worm commonly found in UK dogs.  They contain 3 active ingredients: pyrantal and febantal, highly effective against all important roundworm species, and praziquantal, highly effective against all important tapeworm species. 

The tablets have a tasty liver flavour, making them very easy to give, either in the food or as a treat. The tablets should be administered according to the following dosage table:

	Bodyweight (kg)	Number of tablets
	3 – 5	½
	>5 – 10	1
	>10 – 15	1 ½
	>15 – 20	2

	Bodyweight (kg)	Number of tablets
	17.5	½
	18 – 35	1
	>35 – 52.5	1 ½
	>52.5 - 70	2

An alternative product should be used for puppies under 3kg

A Guide to Worming Dogs

Worms live in the body by feeding on digesting food in the intestines, or by attaching themselves to the gut wall and feeding off the blood supply.  Not all infected dogs will show outward signs, but those that do may show signs such as vomiting, diarrhoea (possibly bloody), weight loss or a "pot belly".  There are two types of worm commonly found in UK dogs:

Roundworms

The most common roundworm is called Toxacara canis .  This produces eggs that can also infect people, with children being particularly susceptible.  Regular worming is therefore essential to eliminate worms from the pet and reduce worm eggs in the environment.

Puppies commonly become infected with the roundworm Toxacara canis  by their mother during pregnancy or during suckling.  It is important, therefore, to worm puppies at the age of 2 weeks and every 2 weeks thereafter until they are 12 weeks old.  To prevent the puppies from being re-infected during suckling it is also advisable to treat the mother 2 weeks after she gives birth, and every 2 weeks therafter until weaning.

Adult dogs commonly pick up roundworm eggs from the faeces of infected dogs or foxes so, for routine worm control, adult dogs should be treated every 3 months. 

More frequent worming (monthly in some cases) may be needed in dogs with a higher risk of picking up worms.  These may include those that are kept in a kennelled environment, eat raw meat and offal or like to hunt.  In the event of a heavy infestation, a repeat dose should be given after 14 days.

Tapeworms

These are commonly transmitted by fleas so, in addition to worming, regular flea control is also advisable.