How to Spot and Treat Worms in Cats

How to Spot and Treat Worms in Cats: Cats are known for their independent, self-cleaning habits but despite their careful grooming, they’re not immune to internal parasites like worms. Worms are one of the most common health issues faced by cats, and they can be dangerous if left untreated.

Whether your cat is indoor, outdoor, a kitten or senior, it’s essential to understand how to spot the signs of a worm infestation and how to treat and prevent them effectively.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: the types of worms, how to detect them, treatment options, and how to keep them from coming back.

Understanding Worms in Cats

Cats can be infected by several types of intestinal parasites, but the most common include:

1. Roundworms

• Long, spaghetti-like worms.
• Common in kittens.
• Transmitted through contaminated feces or milk from the mother.

2. Tapeworms

• Flat, segmented worms.
• Often seen as rice-sized particles near the anus or in feces.
• Usually contracted via fleas or by eating infected rodents.

3. Hookworms

• Small but dangerous; attach to the intestines and feed on blood.
• Can cause anemia, especially in kittens.

4. Whipworms

• Less common, but still a concern.
• Cause inflammation in the large intestine.

5. Heartworms (less common in cats)

• Not intestinal but affect the heart and lungs.
• Spread via mosquito bites; harder to diagnose and treat.

How Do Cats Get Worms?

Even indoor cats are at risk. Here’s how cats typically contract worms:

• Eating infected prey or insects like rodents, birds, or fleas.
• Grooming—swallowing flea eggs that carry tapeworm larvae.
• Mother’s milk—kittens can get roundworms from their mothers.
• Contaminated environments—soil, feces, or litter boxes harbor parasite eggs.

Symptoms: How to Spot Worms in Cats

Some cats show no signs at all, but these are the most common indicators of a worm infestation:

Gastrointestinal Signs:

• Vomiting (sometimes with visible worms)
• Diarrhea (possibly with blood or mucus)
• Swollen or bloated abdomen
• Increased or decreased appetite
• Weight loss despite eating well

Visible Signs:

• Worm segments in feces or near the anus (especially tapeworms)
• Scooting or dragging bottom on the floor
• Dull coat or rough fur
• Lethargy or weakness
• Pale gums (a sign of anemia, especially with hookworms)

In Kittens:

• Stunted growth
• Pot-bellied appearance
• More severe symptoms due to smaller body size

READ ALSO: 5 Ways to Keep Your Cat’s Litter Box Odor-Free

Diagnosis: Confirming the Presence of Worms

If you suspect your cat has worms, visit your veterinarian. They will typically:

• Conduct a fecal exam to detect parasite eggs under a microscope.
• Run a blood test (especially for heartworms).
• Perform a physical exam to assess your cat’s overall health and look for signs.

You should never rely solely on visual observation or over-the-counter medications without confirmation.

Treatment: How to Get Rid of Worms

Fortunately, worms are treatable with a range of medications. Treatment depends on the type of worm and the cat’s condition.

1. Deworming Medications

These may be in pill, liquid, topical, or injection form. Common active ingredients include:

• Pyrantel pamoate (for roundworms and hookworms)
• Praziquantel (for tapeworms)
• Fenbendazole (broad-spectrum dewormer)

Veterinarian-prescribed medications are safest and most effective.

2. Follow-Up Treatment

• A second dose is often required 2–3 weeks later to eliminate larvae.
• Monitor for side effects like diarrhea or vomiting post-treatment.
• Retest feces after treatment to ensure success.

3. Treating Fleas (If Tapeworms Are Present)

• Since fleas often transmit tapeworms, a flea prevention treatment (like Frontline or Advantage) is essential.

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Prevention: Keeping Worms at Bay

Once treated, preventing reinfestation is key. Here’s how:

1. Routine Deworming

• Kittens: every 2 weeks from 2 to 12 weeks old, then monthly until 6 months.
• Adult cats: every 3–6 months or as advised by your vet, depending on lifestyle.

2. Regular Vet Checkups

• Annual fecal exams to check for parasites.
• Heartworm testing if in a high-risk region.

3. Flea Control

• Use vet-approved flea prevention year-round, especially for tapeworm control.

4. Clean Litter Boxes Daily

• Dispose of waste promptly to prevent exposure to eggs or larvae.

5. Limit Outdoor Access

• Reduces exposure to infected animals and feces.

6. Disinfect Bedding and Toys

• Regular washing and vacuuming remove potential eggs.

Natural Remedies: Do They Work?

Some people use natural dewormers like pumpkin seeds, garlic, or diatomaceous earth. While some may have mild antiparasitic effects, they should never replace vet-recommended treatments. They’re often ineffective for serious infestations and can delay proper care.

When to See a Vet Immediately

Call your veterinarian if:

• You see worms in your cat’s vomit or feces.
• Your cat has persistent diarrhea, weight loss, or lethargy.
• Your kitten is not gaining weight or looks bloated.
• Your cat is vomiting frequently or scooting constantly.

Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to avoid complications like anemia, intestinal blockage, or severe dehydration.

FAQs

Can humans get worms from cats?

Yes. Some cat worms (like roundworms and hookworms) are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted to humans especially children. Practicing hygiene and regular deworming reduces this risk.

Are indoor cats safe from worms?

Not completely. Indoor cats can still ingest fleas or contaminated items brought in from outside. Indoor-only cats should still receive routine deworming and flea control.

How often should I deworm my cat?

Kittens need more frequent deworming. Adult cats typically need it every 3 to 6 months, but high-risk cats may need monthly treatment. Always follow your vet’s advice.

Can I use dog dewormers for my cat?

No. Dog dewormers may contain ingredients that are toxic to cats. Always use products specifically designed and approved for cats.

Is deworming medicine safe for kittens?

Yes, if approved for kittens and used at the correct dose. Most kittens can be safely dewormed starting at 2 weeks old under veterinary supervision.

My cat seems fine should I still get them tested for worms?

Yes. Some cats show no symptoms but still carry worms. Regular fecal exams help catch silent infestations before they become serious.

What happens if I don’t treat worms?

Untreated worms can cause malnutrition, intestinal blockage, anemia, or even death—especially in kittens. Early treatment is always safer and more effective.

Can I see worms in my cat’s poop?

Sometimes. Tapeworm segments may appear like rice grains near the anus or in feces. Roundworms may be seen in vomit. However, many worms are microscopic and require lab testing to detect.