Intestinal Parasites (Worms) in Cats

Cats, or even most pets, can acquire intestinal parasites as well as some of what we call "worms". Infestations of intestinal worms can cause a variety of symptoms. In some cases cats show only few of these symptoms. Sometimes they don't even show up, thus, the infestation can develop without detection despite being a potentially serious health problem. Some feline parasitic worms are hazards for humane health as well. We must be aware of these parasite as well as how to manage if we are in such situation.

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So what are the most common types of worms in cats? Here is a list of them:

• Roundworms - the most common internal parasites in cats. They resemble spaghetti and can grow up to 3 to 4 inches long. Cats can be affected by this in several ways. Nursing kittens can get roundworms from an infected mother’s milk, while adult cats can acquire them by ingesting an infected rodent or the feces of an infected cat.
•  Hookworms - smaller than roundworms-less than an inch long-and reside primarily in the small intestine. These worms can cause life-threatening anemia especially in kittens since they feed on blood. Hookworm eggs are passed in the stool and hatch into larvae. A cat can become infected through ingestion or skin contact. However it is worth noting that hookworms are more common on dogs than cats.
• Tapeworms - segmented parasites that can range from 4 to 28 inches in length. These worms are usually long and flat. An infestation can cause vomiting or weight loss. Cats acquire tapeworms by ingesting an intermediate host, like an infected flea or rodent. When cats are infected, tapeworm segments.
•  Lungworms - resides at the lungs unlike intestinal parasites. Cats develop coughs as a symptom of acquiring this worm. However, some will show no signs at all. They can acquire this worm after eating a bird or rodent who has ingested an intermediate host, such as, slugs or snails.

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 Usual transmissions of these worms to your cat may be through the digestion of the feces of an infected cat. Mother cats can also pass on worms to their kittens. Also, the symptoms depend on the type of worm infecting your cats. Nonetheless, the most common clinical signs include:

• Diarrhea
• Worms visible in stool or segments of worm seen near anus
• Bloody stool
• Bloating or round, potbellied appearance to abdomen
• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Coughing
• Trouble breathing

 
Are certain cats prone to these worms? Outdoor cats that hunt and eat rodents, and those who are routinely exposed to soil where other animals defecate are prone to worms. Cats that have fleas are also likely to get tapeworms. Kittens and cats that do not receive regular preventative health care are most at risk for developing complications associated with internal parasites. So if your think your cat has displayed a number of these symptoms, bring them to your veterinarian immediately. Avoid self-diagnosis, since worms are not always visible or identifiable.

 A cat is treated specifically by what type of worm it has. For instance, a dewormer that eradicates tapeworms will not kill roundworms. And some over-the-counter deworming medications can be damaging. After your vet has accurately diagnosed the type of parasite your pet has, he or she will then prescribe the best course of treatment.

Prevent your cat from having these worms by keeping your cat indoors to avoid exposure from infected cats, rodents, fleas and feces. Also, make sure your home or yard is free from fleas. In addition, be sure to practice frequently disposing litter box waste and don't forget to wear gloves while doing this. You can also talk to your vet on parasite prevention programs available for your cat.

Having worms that can be bad for your cat should always be prevented. If your love your cat, be cautious always. 'Til next time!