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Is your cat acting differently lately? Maybe they're eating less, losing weight, or just seem "off." Worms are a common issue in cats, and catching the signs early is key to keeping your feline friend healthy. Let’s explore the symptoms of worms in cats, what causes them, and what you can do to help your pet feel better fast.
⚠️ What to Watch For
Worms in cats can cause a variety of symptoms. While some cats may not show any obvious signs, others can develop noticeable issues that signal something is wrong. Here are the most common symptoms to look out for:
- Visible worms or white, rice-like segments in your cat’s stool or around their anus
- Diarrhea, sometimes with blood or mucus
- Vomiting, which may occasionally contain worms
- Weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite
- A bloated or distended belly, especially in kittens
- Increased licking or irritation around the anal area
- Dull or rough coat
- Low energy or lethargy
- Coughing (a potential sign of lungworm)
It’s important to remember that some symptoms, like vomiting or diarrhea, can be caused by other issues. A vet consultation is the best way to determine the root cause.
🔍 Possible Causes
Cats can pick up worms in several ways. Understanding how infections happen can help you take steps to prevent them in the future. Here are the most common causes:
- Ingesting infected prey: Cats that hunt small animals like mice or birds are at risk of contracting worms.
- Fleas: Fleas can carry tapeworm eggs, and if your cat ingests a flea while grooming, they can become infected.
- Contaminated soil or feces: Outdoor cats may come into contact with parasite eggs in soil or feces.
- Mother-to-kitten transmission: Kittens can acquire worms from their mother’s milk or while in the womb.
Common types of worms in cats include roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and lungworms. Each type can cause slightly different symptoms, but all require treatment to prevent serious health issues.
✅ What You Can Do at Home
If you suspect your cat has worms, there are a few steps you can take to help them feel better while you arrange for a vet consultation:
- Check their litter box: Look for visible worms or unusual stool (e.g., diarrhea, blood, or mucus).
- Inspect their fur: Check around their anus or in their bedding for white, rice-like tapeworm segments.
- Keep them indoors: Limit outdoor access to reduce exposure to new parasites.
- Clean their environment: Wash bedding, clean litter boxes, and vacuum regularly to reduce the risk of reinfection.
It’s important to avoid giving your cat over-the-counter dewormers without veterinary guidance. Not all products are safe or effective, and using the wrong one could harm your pet.
💡 When to Call a Vet
While some symptoms of worms may seem mild, untreated infections can lead to serious health complications. Contact your vet if you notice any of the following:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Significant weight loss or a bloated abdomen
- Visible worms in vomit, stool, or around the anus
- Severe lethargy or weakness
- Signs of dehydration (e.g., sunken eyes, dry gums)
Your vet will likely recommend a stool sample to identify the type of worm affecting your cat. Based on the diagnosis, they can prescribe a safe and effective deworming medication. In severe cases, additional treatments may be necessary to address complications like dehydration or anemia.
FAQs
Q: Can indoor cats get worms?
A: Yes, even indoor cats can get worms. Fleas, contaminated food, or exposure to infected animals (e.g., a new pet) can introduce parasites into your home.
Q: How often should I deworm my cat?
A: Kittens should be dewormed every 2-3 weeks until 12 weeks old, then monthly until 6 months old. Adult cats typically need deworming every 3-6 months, but your vet may recommend a different schedule based on your cat’s lifestyle.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
