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Worms in Cats: How to Identify

Mar 20,2025 | puaintapets

Cats are wonderful companions, but they are also susceptible to various health issues, one of which is worm infestations. Knowing how to tell if your cat has worms is crucial for their overall health and well - being.

worms in cat

How to Tell If My Cat Has Worms?

Worms are common parasites that can affect cats of all ages. If left untreated, they can cause digestive issues, weight loss, and severe health complications. Knowing the symptoms and early warning signs can help you take action quickly.

Types of Worms That Affect Cats

Different worms can infect cats, including:

Roundworms – Long, spaghetti-like worms in the intestines.
Tapeworms – Flat, segmented worms often seen in feces or around the anus.
Hookworms – Small worms that attach to the intestinal lining, causing anemia.
Whipworms – Less common but can cause diarrhea and weight loss.
Heartworms – Live in the heart and lungs, leading to breathing issues.

Signs Your Cat Has Worms

1. Visible Worms in Feces or Vomit

Roundworms and tapeworm segments may appear in stool or vomit.
Tapeworm segments resemble small rice grains near the anus.

2. Changes in Appetite

Some cats become extremely hungry, while others lose interest in food.
Worms compete for nutrients, leading to malnutrition.

3. Weight Loss Despite Eating Normally

If your cat eats well but still loses weight, worms may be stealing essential nutrients.

4. Vomiting and Diarrhea

Cats with worms may experience frequent vomiting or bloody stools.

5. Bloated or Swollen Belly

Kittens with roundworms often develop a distended belly despite being underweight.

Also Read: My Cat Looks Bloated But Acting Normal

6. Lethargy and Weakness

Worm infestations can cause fatigue, pale gums, and general weakness.

7. Itching, Scooting, or Excessive Grooming

If your cat drags their bottom on the floor, tapeworm irritation might be the cause.
Worms can cause skin irritation, leading to excessive scratching and grooming.

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How Do Cats Get Worms?

I. Through Ingestion

A. Hunting and Eating Prey

Cats are natural hunters, and when they catch and eat small animals such as mice, birds, or insects, they may ingest worms or their eggs. For example, mice can be carriers of roundworms. When a cat eats an infected mouse, it can become infected with the roundworms that were living in the mouse's body.
Birds can also be a source of various worm parasites. If a cat catches and consumes an infected bird, it may pick up tapeworms or other types of worms.

B. Ingesting Worm Eggs from the Environment

Cats may accidentally ingest worm eggs while grooming themselves. If they walk through an area contaminated with feces containing worm eggs and then lick their paws, they can ingest these eggs.
Another way is by exploring their surroundings. For instance, if they dig in soil or grass that is contaminated with worm - infested feces, they can pick up worm eggs on their fur or paws and then ingest them while cleaning themselves.

C. Mother - to - Kitten Transmission

Kittens can get worms from their mother. During pregnancy or through the mother's milk, a mother cat can pass on certain types of worms to her kittens. For example, roundworms can be transmitted to kittens in the womb or through colostrum (the first milk produced by the mother).

II. Flea Infestation

Fleas can act as intermediate hosts for tapeworms. When a cat has a flea infestation, it may ingest a flea while grooming. If that flea is carrying tapeworm larvae, the cat will then become infected with tapeworms. The flea serves as a vehicle to transfer the tapeworm larvae into the cat's digestive system.

Related: The Best Flea Treatments for Cats and Dogs

III. Contact with Infected Animals

Social interaction with other infected cats or animals can lead to worm transmission. For example, if a cat shares a litter box or living space with an infected cat, it can be exposed to worm eggs or larvae present in the feces or the environment.
In multi - cat households or in places like animal shelters, the risk of worm transmission through contact with infected animals is relatively high.

How to Treat Worms in Cats

1. Use a Vet-Approved Dewormer

Deworming medications eliminate parasites effectively.
Consult your vet for the best oral or topical deworming treatment.

2. Maintain Flea Control

Since fleas carry tapeworm eggs, using the Puainta® Pest Control Collar can help prevent flea infestations, reducing worm infections.

3. Improve Hygiene & Clean the Litter Box Daily

Worm eggs spread through contaminated feces, so clean regularly.

4. Treat Skin Irritation from Worms

Worms can cause skin inflammation and excessive itching.
Use Banov Shampoo for Skin Disease to soothe irritated skin and prevent secondary infections caused by scratching.

How to Prevent Worms in Cats

I. Dietary Precautions

A. High - Quality Food

Feed your cat a balanced and high - quality commercial cat food. These foods are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of cats, which helps keep their immune systems strong. A strong immune system is better able to fend off worm infections. For example, look for cat foods that contain a good balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Avoid feeding your cat raw or undercooked meat. Raw meat can be a source of worm eggs or larvae. For instance, raw fish may contain tapeworm larvae, and raw chicken can carry various types of worm parasites.

B. Clean Water

Always provide your cat with clean, fresh water. Water bowls should be washed regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria and the accumulation of potential contaminants that could be harmful or attract worms.

II. Hygiene and Living Environment

A. Litter Box Maintenance

Clean the litter box daily. Remove feces promptly as it can contain worm eggs. If left uncleaned, the eggs can hatch and reinfect the cat or infect other animals in the household.
Replace the litter completely at least once a week. Use a litter that is easy to clean and has good odor - control properties.
Place the litter box in a clean, dry area away from food and water sources.

B. Home Cleaning

Regularly vacuum carpets, rugs, and floors to remove any potential worm eggs or larvae that may be present in the environment. Pay special attention to areas where the cat likes to rest or play.
Wash your cat's bedding, toys, and scratching posts frequently. Use hot water and a mild detergent to kill any parasites or eggs that may be on these items.

III. Outdoor Precautions (if applicable)

A. Controlled Outdoor Access

If your cat goes outdoors, limit its access to areas that are likely to be contaminated. For example, avoid areas with a lot of stray animals or places where feces are not properly disposed of.
Consider building a cat - proof fence or using a cat enclosure to keep your cat in a clean and safe outdoor area.

B. Flea and Tick Control

Use flea and tick preventatives regularly. Fleas can act as intermediate hosts for some types of worms, such as tapeworms. By preventing flea infestations, you can reduce the risk of your cat getting tapeworms. There are various products available, including topical treatments, collars, and oral medications.

IV. Regular Veterinary Care

A. Deworming Schedule

Follow your veterinarian's recommended deworming schedule. Kittens usually need more frequent deworming than adult cats. For example, kittens may need to be dewormed every 2 - 3 weeks until they are a few months old, while adult cats may only need deworming every 3 - 6 months.
Different regions may have different prevalence of worm types, so your vet will be able to determine the most appropriate deworming protocol based on your cat's age, lifestyle, and local conditions.

B. Health Check - Ups

Take your cat for regular veterinary check - ups. The vet can perform fecal examinations to check for the presence of worm eggs or larvae, even if the cat shows no symptoms. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and prevention of more serious worm infestations.

When to See a Vet

📌 If your cat has severe weight loss, bloody stools, persistent vomiting, or lethargy, visit a vet immediately. Some worm infestations can cause serious organ damage if untreated.

FAQs

Can indoor cats get worms?

Yes! Even indoor cats can get worms from fleas, contaminated soil, or infected food.

Can I see worms in my cat’s poop?

Sometimes. Tapeworm segments look like small rice grains, while roundworms resemble spaghetti strands.

Are cat worms contagious to humans?

Yes. Roundworms and hookworms can spread to humans, especially through contaminated surfaces.

How are worm infestations in cats treated?

Treatment depends on the type of worm. Your veterinarian will typically prescribe specific deworming medications. These may be in the form of tablets, liquids, or topical treatments. In some cases, multiple treatments may be required to completely eliminate the worms.

Conclusion

Identifying worms in cats is crucial for their health. Visual signs like seeing worms in feces or around the anus can be a clear indication. Digestive problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, and appetite changes are also key. Appearance - wise, a dull coat or pot - bellied look may be present. Behavioral shifts like lethargy or irritability can occur. Regular vet check - ups are essential as some signs may be subtle. Early identification allows for prompt treatment, ensuring the cat's well - being.