Worms are not a fun topic for any cat owner, but sadly, they’re very common. These gastrointestinal parasites of cats can live in your cat’s intestines, causing all sorts of problems. The most common culprits are roundworms and tapeworms. While they might not cause serious, lasting issues in most cats, getting rid of them is important for your feline friend’s health and your peace of mind.
HighlightsCommon cat worms include roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms.Ringworm in cats is a contagious fungal infection, not an actual worm.Symptoms of worms in cats range from digestive issues to a dull coat.Preventing worms in cats involves regular deworming and flea control.
Did you know that gastrointestinal parasitism is a common problem in cats? About 45% of cats get it at some point. These parasites can cause unpleasant symptoms like a dull coat, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and a pot-bellied appearance. In really bad cases, worms can weaken your cat’s immune system and some worms even have the potential to infect humans – so it’s important to take care of them quickly.
In this guide, we have covered everything you need to know about worms in cats. Let’s talk about how to treat them safely and effectively – and how to stop them from coming back.
The information provided herein is for informational purposes only. Please refer to ourdisclaimerfor more details..
Table of ContentsHow Do Cats Get Worms Infestation?Most Common Types of Cat WormsLess Commonly Diagnosed WormsWhat is Ringworm? Is it a worm?General/Common Symptoms of Worms in CatsIdentifying Symptoms of Specific Types of WormsDiagnosing Worms in Cats: What Your Vet Looks ForTreatment of Worms in CatsVeterinarian-Prescribed TreatmentWorming FrequencyChoosing the Best DewormerPreventing Worms in Cats: Essential TipsPrevent FleasRegular DewormingLitter Box HygieneOutdoor Cat SafetyTo Sum it Up!Frequently Asked QuestionsCan Cats Catch Worms From Dogs?Do Worms Hurt My Cat?How Should I Clean My House If My Cat Has Worms?Can Humans Get Worms From Cats?
How Do Cats Get Worms Infestation?
Image credits: Engin_Akyurt
Unfortunately, there are a few ways cats can become hosts to these unwanted guests. It depends on which kind of worm we’re talking about. Sometimes, cats pick upworm eggsfrom their environment. These eggs might be in thesoil, their litter box, or even on another animal’s fur.
Most Common Types of Cat Worms
As a cat owner, I know how frustrating and worrisome it can be to think about my furry friend getting intestinal parasites. Unfortunately, these parasites are all too common in cats. Let’s see the most frequent types of worms in cats:
Less Commonly Diagnosed Worms
While less frequent, these worms can still cause significant health problems in cats:
What is Ringworm? Is it a worm?
Image credits:
Ringworm isn’t actually a worm – it’s afungal infectionof the skin! It gets its name from the ring-shaped, red patches it often causes. Ringworm is highly contagious between cats, pets, and even humans.
General/Common Symptoms of Worms in Cats
Cats with worms can experience a wide range of symptoms. Some cats might not show any signs at all, while others may have severe problems. Here are some of the most common symptoms to look out for that might indicate worms in your cats:
Identifying Symptoms of Specific Types of Worms
Image credits:Cintya Marisa
Diagnosing Worms in Cats: What Your Vet Looks For
Cats can contract a variety of intestinal worms, each presenting challenges in diagnosis. Here’s how your veterinarian goes about determining if your cat has worms:
Treatment of Worms in Cats
While you may find websites suggesting natural remedies for worms, such asgarlic or apple cider vinegar– to get rid of worms- these areNOT recommended.Not only is their effectiveness unproven, but some ingredients could harm your cat. Always consult your veterinarian to treat worms in cats.
Veterinarian-Prescribed Treatment
Worming Frequency
Choosing the Best Dewormer
Dewormerscome in various forms:
Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best choice for your cat and learn the correct administration.
Preventing Worms in Cats: Essential Tips
Image credits:freepik
Keeping your feline friend worm-free is important for their health and yours. Here’s what you can do:
Prevent Fleas
Regular Deworming
Especially for cats who go outside or hunt, vets recommend routinedeworming every three months.This proactive approach prevents worms from growing into a serious health problem.
Litter Box Hygiene
Outdoor Cat Safety
Regularly clean up cat poop from your yard,sandboxes, and flowerbeds. This helps prevent the spread of worm eggs and protects both pets and people.
Important Note:Some worms in cats can infect humans too. To protect yourself, your family, and your cats, take these preventative steps very seriously.
To Sum it Up!
Worms might not be a pleasant topic, but being informed is the best way to protect your beloved feline companion. If you notice any of the symptoms discussed, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with your veterinarian. Prompt diagnosis and treatment will have your cat back to their happy, playful self in no time. Remember, preventing worms is always easier than treating them – so prioritize regular deworming, excellent litter box hygiene, and good flea control
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cats Catch Worms From Dogs?
Do Worms Hurt My Cat?
Yes, worms can cause pain and discomfort for cats. As worm larvae migrate through a cat’s body, they can damage internal organs like the liver, stomach, lungs, and eyes. This damage leads to inflammation and pain.
You might notice your cat showing signs of stomach upset (vomiting, loss of appetite, nausea), eye irritation (rubbing the eye, discharge), changes in breathing, or a swollen belly in severe cases.
How Should I Clean My House If My Cat Has Worms?
To prevent reinfection and protect your own health, it’s important to clean your house thoroughly if your cat has internal parasties. Focus on the litter box area, scooping daily and disinfecting the box weekly with a bleach solution (use as directed).
Vacuum carpets and mop floors regularly, paying special attention to where your cat frequents. Wash your cat’s bedding in hot water, and vacuum any upholstered furniture where your cat likes to rest. Always use pet-safe cleaning products to avoid any harm to your furry friend.
Can Humans Get Worms From Cats?
The best way to protect yourself from catching worms from your cat is simple: wash your hands regularly! After cleaning the litter box or coming into contact with cat feces. Wear gloves when working in the garden, and teach children the importance of proper handwashing after playing outside or in sandboxes.
2Kviews2Kviews
Pet Wellness
