What are Cat Worms?

Cat worms are intestinal worms which can affect cats. In addition to being a problem for cats, many feline worms can also affect dogs, humans, and other animals. Treating cat worms is important, as worms can cause general ill health and interfere with the function of the cat's immune system, making it hard for the cat to fight off disease. Because there are several different types of worms, the advice of a veterinarian should be sought when treating cat worms, to ensure that the right medication is selected.

There are four basis types of cat worms: roundworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. All of these worms like to set up camp in the intestines, with hookworms actually latching into the intestinal wall to feed, while roundworms can encyst in the muscle tissue, erupting at a later date. Hookworms in particular can be deadly in kittens.

Cats get worms in a variety of ways. Ingesting infected prey can cause a worm infestation, as can consuming fleas or feces. Cat worms can also migrate to a cat if the animal is exposed to worm eggs in dirt or on plants, as might be the case with an indoor/outdoor cat. Cat worms are especially common in cats which roam outdoors, as there are many potential vectors for transmission which cannot be controlled.

Humans sharing a household with a cat can also develop worms, if they are not careful. If a cat has worms, it is a good idea to exercise proper hygiene, washing the hands thoroughly after handling the cat, keeping the litterbox clean, and keeping the cat away from food preparation areas.

Some common symptoms of infection with worms include: weight loss, diarrhea, a potbellied appearance, vomiting, scruffy or dulled fur, anemia, and stunted growth. In the case of tapeworms, segments of the tapeworm may appear around the anus; these segments look like little grains of flattened rice. If you suspect that your cat has worms, the cat and a stool sample should be brought to the vet to determine which worms are present.

A veterinarian can prescribe an appropriate dewormer, and he or she will usually request a follow up examination in several weeks to ensure that the worms have been eliminated. Pet owners can take some steps to avoid cat worms, such as using antiflea medication and keeping cats indoors, where they cannot come into contact with contaminated soil or prey. Keeping cats indoors also extends their lifespan, and keeps the neighbors happy, as roaming cats can interfere with bird feeding stations and leave unwanted deposits in neighborhood gardens.

Cat worms are parasitic organisms that can live in a cat's digestive system, lungs, or other tissues. Cats can get them through ingestion of worm eggs or larvae, which can be found in contaminated soil, feces, or prey animals like rodents. Kittens can also contract worms from their mother's milk.

The most common types of worms in cats include roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and heartworms. Roundworms and tapeworms are often visible in a cat's feces or around their rear, while hookworms and heartworms require a veterinary diagnosis, as they reside in the cat's intestines and heart/lung area, respectively.

Signs your cat may have worms include weight loss, a bloated abdomen, vomiting, diarrhea, and visible segments or whole worms in feces or around the anus. Some cats may also show changes in appetite or coat condition. However, some infestations may be asymptomatic, so regular veterinary check-ups are important.

Some cat worms, like roundworms and hookworms, can be contagious to humans, especially children, through contact with contaminated soil or feces. They can also spread to other pets. Proper hygiene and regular deworming of your pets can help prevent transmission.

Worms in cats are typically treated with anthelmintic medications prescribed by a veterinarian. The specific treatment depends on the type of worm, and may require one or multiple doses. It's crucial to follow the vet's instructions and complete the full course of treatment to ensure all worms and their larvae are eliminated.

Preventing worms in cats involves regular deworming schedules, which your vet can recommend based on your cat's lifestyle and risk factors. Keeping your cat indoors, promptly cleaning litter boxes, and preventing hunting behaviors can also reduce the risk of worm infestations. Additionally, flea control is important, as fleas can carry tapeworm larvae.