Parasites are a common problem among cats, particularly those that spend time outdoors, but even indoor cats can become infected. Worms can cause various health issues, some of which are not immediately visible to pet owners.
In order to keep your cat healthy and comfortable, it’s crucial to recognize the signs that may indicate your cat needs a dewormer.
Understanding Worms in Cats
Cats can be infected with several different types of worms. The most common ones are:
a. Roundworms (Toxocara cati)
Roundworms are one of the most common intestinal parasites in cats. They live in the intestines and can cause weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea. Kittens are particularly susceptible to roundworms, as they can be passed from the mother to her young through the placenta or milk.
b. Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum)
Tapeworms are flat, segmented worms that live in the intestines. They are often visible in the cat’s stool or around the anus. Tapeworms are transmitted by fleas or ingestion of infected rodents.
c. Hookworms (Ancylostoma spp.)
Hookworms attach to the lining of the intestines and suck blood, which can lead to anemia in severe cases. They can be contracted through contaminated soil, feces, or direct contact with infected environments.
d. Whipworms (Trichuris spp.)
Whipworms are less common but can still infect cats. They live in the large intestine and cause symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss.
e. Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis)
Heartworms are typically spread through mosquito bites, though they are more common in dogs. However, cats can also be affected, and the worms live in the heart and lungs. Heartworms are a serious condition and require immediate veterinary attention.
READ ALSO: Top Dog Deworming Solutions for Every Breed
Common Signs of Worm Infestation in Cats
Recognizing the signs of worm infestations early is crucial to preventing serious health problems for your cat. Below are some of the most common symptoms of worms in cats.
a. Vomiting
If your cat is vomiting frequently, it could be a sign of a worm infestation. Roundworms, in particular, are known to cause vomiting in cats, and you may even see worms in the vomit. Tapeworms can also lead to vomiting and regurgitation.
b. Diarrhea or Constipation
Worms can affect your cat’s digestive system, leading to gastrointestinal upset. Diarrhea is common, especially with roundworms and hookworms, but in some cases, worms may also cause constipation or difficulty passing stool.
c. Weight Loss
Despite eating normally or even excessively, a worm infestation can lead to weight loss in cats. Worms take nutrients from your cat’s food, preventing them from gaining weight and causing malnutrition. This is especially noticeable in kittens, where roundworms can stunt growth.
d. Visible Worms in Stool or Around the Anus
One of the most obvious signs of worms is seeing actual worms in your cat’s stool or around the anus. Tapeworms are often visible as small, rice-like segments around the rear end, while roundworms may be seen in the stool. If you notice these, it’s essential to get your cat treated as soon as possible.
e. Scooting or Excessive Licking of the Anus
Cats infected with tapeworms may scoot their bottom on the floor to relieve the itching caused by segments of the worm around the anus. If your cat is licking the area excessively, it could also be an indication of irritation caused by worms.
f. Anemia or Pale Gums
Hookworms can cause anemia by attaching to the intestines and sucking blood. Anemia can result in pale or yellowing gums, weakness, and lethargy. If you notice that your cat’s gums are unusually pale or that they seem lethargic, it may be a sign of hookworm infestation.
g. Coughing and Respiratory Problems
In rare cases, heartworms can cause respiratory issues, including coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing. Although heartworm infestations are more common in dogs, they can still occur in cats, and the symptoms are often mistaken for other respiratory problems.
h. Increased Appetite or Eating More Than Normal
While weight loss is common in cats with worms, some cats may also experience an increased appetite as a result of their bodies trying to compensate for the nutrients that are being stolen by the worms. This can be particularly noticeable in cats with roundworms.
i. Change in Behavior or Lethargy
A cat with a worm infestation may exhibit a change in behavior. They may appear more tired or lethargic than usual. This can be due to the body’s reaction to the infestation, as the cat’s immune system works to fight off the parasites.
How Do Cats Get Worms?
There are several ways your cat could become infected with worms:
Contact with contaminated soil or feces: Cats that spend time outdoors or in areas where other animals may have defecated are at a higher risk.
Ingestion of infected fleas: Fleas are a common source of tapeworms in cats. If your cat swallows a flea while grooming, they may become infected.
Mother to kitten transmission: Kittens can be born with roundworms if their mother was infected. This is common in feral or stray cats.
Eating infected prey: Outdoor cats that hunt rodents or birds can ingest tapeworm larvae or other parasite eggs.
Mosquito bites: While rarer, heartworms can be contracted if a mosquito carrying the larvae bites your cat.
Treatment Options: Deworming Your Cat
If you notice any of the symptoms listed above or suspect your cat has worms, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. Your vet will likely perform a fecal test to check for eggs or larvae, and in some cases, they may recommend an ultrasound or blood test to check for heartworms.
There are several types of dewormers, and your veterinarian will choose the best one based on the type of worm your cat has. These may include:
Oral Medications: These are the most common treatment and come in the form of tablets, liquids, or chewables. Some dewormers treat only specific worms, while others offer broad-spectrum coverage.
Topical Treatments: Some dewormers are applied directly to your cat’s skin. These are typically used for external parasites like fleas, but some can also treat internal worms.
Injectable Dewormers: For certain types of worms, such as heartworms, your vet may recommend an injectable dewormer.
Prevention and Maintaining a Worm-Free Cat
The best way to deal with worms is to prevent them altogether. Here are some key tips to help keep your cat free of parasites:
Regular Deworming: Kittens should be dewormed at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks old. Adult cats should be dewormed every 3-6 months, depending on their lifestyle (indoor cats may require less frequent deworming).
Flea Control: Since fleas are a common source of tapeworms, using flea prevention treatments year-round is crucial.
Keep Your Cat Indoors: Limiting outdoor exposure reduces the risk of your cat coming into contact with contaminated soil or prey.
Clean the Litter Box Regularly: Keeping your cat’s environment clean helps prevent re-infestation.
FAQs
How do I know if my cat needs a dewormer?
Look for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, visible worms in the stool, scooting, weight loss, or a sudden increase in appetite. If you notice any of these, take your cat to the vet for a proper diagnosis.
Can I treat my cat’s worms at home?
Over-the-counter dewormers are available, but it’s best to consult a vet to ensure the correct treatment. Some worms require specific medications that only a vet can prescribe.
Can humans get worms from cats?
Yes, certain types of worms, like roundworms and hookworms, can be transmitted to humans, especially children. It’s important to practice good hygiene, including washing hands after handling your cat, cleaning the litter box, and preventing your cat from licking or ingesting dirt.
How often should I deworm my cat?
Kittens should be dewormed regularly (every 2 weeks) starting at 2 weeks of age. Adult cats should typically be dewormed every 3-6 months, but consult your vet for specific recommendations based on your cat’s lifestyle.
Can my indoor cat get worms?
Yes, even indoor cats can get worms. They may pick them up from fleas, infected food, or contaminated areas brought in on your clothing or shoes.
What if my cat still has symptoms after deworming?
If symptoms persist after deworming, your cat may have a different type of infection or another underlying health issue. Always consult your veterinarian for further evaluation.
