What are the signs of a cat with worms?
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Pharmacy technician ·
Intestinal worms are common parasites in cats, whether they live indoors or have access to the outdoors. Often discreet, they can nonetheless cause various symptoms and affect your pet’s health. Detecting the signs of a cat infested with worms is essential to act quickly and give it the right treatment.
What types of worms can infest a cat?
Cats can be infested with several types of intestinal worms, including:
- Roundworms (Toxocara cati): common in kittens.
- Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum): transmitted by ingesting fleas.
- Hookworms: rarer, but cause digestive issues.
- Lungworms or heartworms: more serious and less common.
The most common signs of a cat infested with worms
Here are the main symptoms that should alert you:
- Unexplained weight loss: Despite a normal diet, the cat loses weight because the worms absorb some of the nutrients ingested.
- Bloated belly, especially in kittens: A distended abdomen is a typical sign of roundworm infestation.
- Diarrhea, sometimes with blood: The parasites irritate the intestinal walls and can cause digestive issues.
- Vomiting: Some worms, particularly roundworms, may be expelled through vomiting.
- Presence of worms in the stool or around the anus: You may sometimes observe:
– Small white segments (resembling grains of rice): tapeworms.
– Long, thin worms: roundworms. - Lethargy, loss of energy: The infestation tires the cat, which may become listless and less playful.
- Anal itching : Your cat “scoots” its bottom along the ground or licks this area excessively.
Good to know: an infestation can be asymptomatic, especially in healthy adult cats. Hence the importance of regular deworming.
What to do if you suspect an infestation?
Consult your veterinarian
An accurate diagnosis makes it possible to determine the type of worm involved and prescribe a suitable dewormer.
Give a veterinary dewormer
On produits-veto.com, you will find effective dewormers, such as:
Treat the other pets in the household
Worms are easily transmitted between animals through contact or via feces.
Repeat the treatment according to the recommendations
Deworming should be carried out:
- Every month until 6 months old for kittens.
- Every 3 months for adult cats.
Prevention: how to avoid a worm infestation?
- Deworm regularly according to the cat’s age and lifestyle.
- Treat for fleas, which carry certain worms.
- Clean the litter box regularly and disinfect resting areas.
- Limit access to hunting (rodents, birds), which often carry parasites.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ
How can I tell if my cat has worms without going to the vet?
Certain signs, such as the presence of worms in the stool, weight loss or vomiting, can be revealing. However, only a veterinarian can confirm the diagnosis through a fecal analysis.
Are cat worms dangerous for humans?
Yes, some worms (such as Toxocara cati) are zoonotic, meaning transmissible to humans, particularly children. Good hygiene and regular deworming are therefore essential.
My cat doesn’t go outside, can it still catch worms?
Yes, even an indoor cat can become infested, for example by swallowing a flea or licking shoes or bags carrying parasite eggs.
Where to find cat dewormers online?
On produits-veto.com, find our selection of products for cat and kitten antiparasitics.
| Symptom | Probable cause |
|---|---|
| Weight loss | Intestinal worms absorbing nutrients |
| Bloated belly | Roundworms in kittens |
| Diarrhea | Irritation of the digestive tract |
| Anal itching | Presence of tapeworms |
| Lethargy | General weakness linked to the infestation |
Worms in cats are common, but treatable. Regular monitoring, suitable dewormers and good hygiene help protect your four-legged companion… and your household.
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