Intestinal worms in cats: an overview

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Written by Kurt Schmitt

Your cat may have worms, but there is no need to panic. Worms in cats are very common, especially in kittens. Typically, your vet will test your cat annually via a stool sample. Worms are intestinal parasites and may or may not cause visible signs of illness. Worms use your cat as a host in order to get nourishment, reproduce, and complete their life-cycle. There are a number of cat parasites, including a few major classes of worms.
Roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms are the main types of worms found in cats. Fecal exam is the method of diagnosis and should be done during an annual check up.

Typically, cats that share litter boxes will all be afflicted. A fecal sample from one cat, therefore, is usually sufficient to determine if an infestation exists in the home. By the same token, it is recommended that treatment be given to all cats sharing litter boxes if one of them is infected.

Below is an overview on each of the major types of worms found in cats.

Roundworms - Roundworms (Toxocara Cati) have a spaghetti-like look to them, and you usually won't see them unless your cat vomits. Roundworm is common in kittens, who can become infected via their mothers, who may be asymptomatic. The mother cat may have the encysted form of the worm which lies dormant. Don't be surprised if your vet wants to worm your kitten 2-3 times, even if the test results are negative.

In adult cats, infestations of this parasite severe enough to cause illness are unusual. This is because mature cats often develop a natural immunity against roundworm.

Hookworms - Hookworms literally "hook" themselves to the inside wall of your cat's intestines. Since hookworms are tissue feeders, they can cause blood loss, which results in anemia. Other symptoms may include intestinal illness, poor hair coat, and weight loss. The good news concerning hookworms is that most of the roundworm treatments will also kill hookworms. You should note that at least two treatments are needed to rid your cat of this worm.

Tapeworms - Tapeworms are made up of a series of segments containing eggs. When the segments drop off the worm, they are passed in the stool. When they dry out, they look like grains of rice, which you'll sometimes see in areas your cat frequents or around the your cat's anus. If your cat experiences anal irritation and/or exhibits excessive licking, this worm may be present.

Fleas carry tapeworms into your cat's life. The fleas ingest tapeworm eggs and the cats ingest the fleas, thereby becoming infected. The tapeworm then lives in the intestinal tract of the cat and the cycle starts again with the eggs.

Usually, there will be no visible signs of illness in your cat from tapeworms. Remember that as long as there are fleas, your cat is at risk. Until you completely get rid of the fleas, a potential tapeworm problem exists.

Tapeworms, roundworms, and hookworms are enemies of your cat. Keep in mind that while intestinal worms in cats may not always produce any visible signs of illness, your cat is still sick. Cat parasites put undue stress on your little friend, and you should do all you can to help him or her. That includes not only regular check ups, but proper care, high quality food, regular exercise, and the room to play and explore.

Kurt Schmitt
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		About the author: Kurt Schmitt helps cat owners like you solve cat litter box problems and discusses other cat care issues at Cat Lovers Only

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