Worms in cats and how to treat them

Worms in cats occur regularly and can cause health problems. Both outdoor and indoor cats can become infected. That is why it is important to recognize worm infections in time and to treat your cat preventively.

The most common types of worms in cats are roundworms and tapeworms. In addition, hookworms, lungworms, and—abroad—heartworms can also occur.

What are worms in cats?

Worms usually live in the cat’s gastrointestinal tract and can cause issues there. However, infections are not always noticed immediately.

Possible symptoms include:

• diarrhea

• vomiting

• weight loss

• reduced appetite

• a dull coat

• lethargy

Not every cat becomes visibly ill. Furthermore, worms are by no means always visible in the stool.

Roundworm in cats

Roundworms are long, cylindrical worms that live in the intestines. Cats become infected through their environment, eating raw meat, or catching prey. Kittens can also be infected through mother’s milk, putting almost all young cats at risk.

Roundworm larvae can be transmitted to humans. Children are particularly susceptible to this. Good hygiene and regular deworming are therefore important for public health.

Tapeworm in cats

You can sometimes recognize tapeworms by small, white segments that look like grains of rice. These may be visible around the anus or in the cat’s fur.

Infection almost always happens via an intermediate host, such as a flea or a mouse. Cats with fleas therefore have a higher chance of getting tapeworms. Effective flea control helps prevent infection.

Hookworm in cats

Hookworms are small, round worms about one centimeter long. Cats become infected by ingesting larvae from the environment.

An infection can cause chronic diarrhea, sometimes with blood. In severe cases, anemia can even develop. Always contact a vet if symptoms persist.

Heartworm in cats

Heartworm is an exotic parasite that is virtually non-existent in the Netherlands. However, there is a risk around the Mediterranean region.

The larvae are transmitted by mosquitoes. An infection can lead to serious heart problems. If you are taking your cat abroad, discuss preventive protection with your vet.

Lungworm in cats

Cats usually get lungworm by eating infected snails or prey such as mice, birds, and frogs.

Symptoms can include coughing and shortness of breath. Sometimes changes in the lungs are visible on X-rays. Early diagnosis helps prevent complications.

Diagnosis of worms

Even cats that live indoors can get worms and don’t always have to get sick. Because worms are often not visible, the diagnosis is usually made through a stool sample test.

Are you unsure about your cat’s health? Then always have an examination performed.

Deworming: when and how often?

Kittens are dewormed as standard at 4 and 6 weeks of age. This is followed by a monthly treatment until they are 6 months old. Mother cats should be treated at the same time.

From 6 months onwards, it is wise to deworm cats about four times a year. The exact frequency depends on your cat’s lifestyle.

Additionally, prevent cats from eating raw meat and ensure good flea prevention.

Conclusion

Worms in cats are unpleasant, but easy to treat and often simple to prevent. By deworming your cat regularly, staying alert for symptoms, and taking preventive measures, you significantly reduce the risk of health problems.

If in doubt, always contact a vet. Early treatment makes a big difference to your cat’s health.