Worms in cats: All you need to know

Worms are a common, but unwelcome, guest in our feline friends. These internal parasites can affect cats of all ages, but kittens are particularly susceptible. Here’s what you need to know about worms in cats, from the different types to the signs to watch out for, and how to keep your kitty healthy.

Small Door Veterinary indicates that worms can affect cats of all ages, whether they’re indoor or outdoor. Adult cats may get worms from contaminated feces, fleas, or rodents, while kittens can acquire them through nursing.

Types of Worms in Cats

There are several types of worms that can infect cats, the most common being:

• Roundworms: These spaghetti-like worms are passed on through contaminated environments or a mother cat’s milk.
• Tapeworms: Flat, segmented worms, spread through ingesting fleas or infected rodents.
• Hookworms: Hook onto the intestinal wall to feed on a cat’s blood, causing anaemia.
• Whipworms: Less common, but can cause diarrhoea and weight loss.

Signs and Symptoms of Worms in Cats

Cats with worms may not always show signs, but some common ones to look out for include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea, sometimes with blood or mucus
• Weight loss despite a good appetite
• Pot belly in kittens
• Lethargy or weakness
• Visible worms in the faeces or around the anus (roundworms or tapeworm segments)
• Scooting (dragging their bottom on the ground) due to anal itching (tapeworms)

Diagnosis and Treatment

A simple faecal test performed by your vet can diagnose most worm infections. The vet will then recommend the appropriate medication to treat the specific type of worm. Most worm treatments are administered orally and may need to be repeated after a few weeks to ensure all stages of the worm’s life cycle are eliminated.

Prevention of Worms in Cats

Regular deworming is essential in preventing worm infections. The frequency of deworming will depend on your cat’s lifestyle (indoor vs. outdoor), age, and risk factors. Discuss a deworming schedule with your vet to keep your cat protected.

Here are some additional tips for preventing worms in cats:

• Practice good hygiene: Regularly clean your cat’s litter tray.
• Flea control: Regularly treat your cat for fleas to prevent tapeworm infection.
• Limit hunting: Discourage your cat from hunting rodents, which can be carriers of worms.
• Cleanliness: Wash your hands after handling your cat’s litter tray or cleaning up their faeces.

By understanding the risks of worms and taking preventative measures, you can help keep your cat healthy and worm-free. If you suspect your cat has worms, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with your vet for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

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Artificial Intelligence assisted in compiling this article.