Worms in Cats: An Infection of Intestinal Parasites
can get a variety of intestinal parasites, including some that are commonly
referred to as “worms.” Infestations of intestinal worms can cause a variety of
symptoms. Sometimes cats demonstrate few to no outward signs of infection, and
the infestation can go undetected despite being a potentially serious health
problem. Some feline parasitic worms are hazards for humane health as well.
What Are the Most Common Types of Worms in Cats?
are the most common internal parasites in cats.
Resembling spaghetti, adult worms are three to four inches long. There are
several ways cats can become infected. 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.
are much smaller than roundworms-less than an inch
long-and reside primarily in the small intestine. Because they feed on an
animal’s blood, hookworms can cause life-threatening anemia, especially in
kittens. Hookworm eggs are passed in the stool and hatch into larvae, and a cat
can become infected either through ingestion or skin contact. Please note,
hookworms are more common in dogs than in cats.
- Long and flat, tapeworms are segmented parasites and range from 4 to
28 inches in length. 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-actual pieces of the worm
that resemble grains of rice-can often be seen on the fur around a cat’s hind
Unlike intestinal parasites, lungworms reside in the lungs of a cat.
Most cats will not show any signs of having lungworms, but some can develop a
cough. Snails and slugs are popular intermediate hosts of this type of
parasite, but cats are usually infected after eating a bird or rodent who has
ingested an intermediate host.
How Do Cats Get Worms?
Though means of transmission can vary, one of the main ways that cats get
worms is through the ingestion of the feces of infected felines. Mother cats
can also pass on worms to their kittens.
What Are the General Symptoms of Worms?
Symptoms differ depending on the type of parasite and the
location of infection, but some common clinical signs include:
- Worms visible in stool or segments of worm seen near anus
- Bloody stool
- Bloating or round, potbellied appearance to abdomen
- Weight loss
- Trouble breathing
Are Certain Cats Prone to Worms?
Outdoor cats and those who are routinely exposed to soil where
other animals defecate are prone to worms. Kittens and cats who do not receive
regular preventative health care are most at risk for developing complications
associated with internal parasites.