Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Yosry
Updated on 12/29/2024
Reading time 2 min.
Overview
Severity: Medium
Life stage: All
Helminth infections can occur even if a cat never leaves the house. Without treatment, these infections can lead to severe consequences or even death.
Dangers of Worms
Worms in cats are parasitic worms that typically enter the stomach as larvae. They can be found in soil, water, grass, raw meat products, unwashed food, and even on clothing. In fifty percent of cases, helminth infections are asymptomatic, but the cat remains a carrier, posing a risk to other animals.
Regular preventive treatment is essential.
Methods of Infection
Cats commonly contract worm infections through:
- Nursing from an infected mother
- Eating an infected rodent
- Licking contaminated clothing or shoes
- Contact with infected pets
- Ingesting insects carrying larvae
- Consuming raw fish or meat
Symptoms
Symptoms may vary depending on the type of worm but generally include:
| Symptoms | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Changes in appetite | Very common |
| Weight loss | Common |
| Bloated belly | Common |
| Nausea | Common |
| Vomiting | Common |
| Diarrhea, potentially with blood clots | Less common |
| Bowel problems | Common |
| Coat issues | Less common |
| Rashes around the anus | Less common |
| Eye discharge or filmy eyes | Less common |
| Apathy or lethargy | Common |
As the infection progresses, cats may also exhibit:
| Symptoms | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Severe weakness | Very common |
| Pale oral mucous membranes | Common |
| Low blood pressure | Common |
| Unexplained dehydration | Less common |
Diagnosis
Regular preventive diagnostics are recommended, as worm segments are not always present in feces, and symptoms may only appear in advanced cases. Diagnostic methods include:
- Visual inspection of the pet
- Fecal analysis
- Laboratory blood tests
Treatment
A veterinarian should prescribe treatment, as different types of worms require specific medications. If the cat also has fleas, they should be treated first, as they can carry parasite larvae. Worm medications are typically available as tablets, suspensions, drops, and occasionally injections for in-clinic treatment. Use only the medication prescribed by the veterinarian.
Prevention
Effective prevention involves regular check-ups, anti-worm medications, and avoiding contact with stray animals. Additionally, follow these sanitary measures:
- Perform weekly cleaning with disinfectants
- Store shoes out of the cat’s reach
- Regularly clean food and water bowls
- Exclude raw meat and fish from the cat’s diet
- Conduct timely anti-parasitic treatments
- Disinfect pet items, wash bedding, and clean toys
Risk of Infection for Humans
Worms can be transmitted from a cat to a human through:
- Contact with the cat or its belongings
- Cleaning up feces and washing litter trays
- Contact with soil or sand where the cat has defecated
Always wash your hands after any contact with a cat or its belongings.
Conclusion
Worms pose a serious danger to cats and humans, especially due to the long asymptomatic period. Regular prevention is crucial for protecting both the cat and its owner. Remember, prevention is always better than treatment.
Share this, choose your platform!
Writen by
Dr. Sarah Yosry
DVM
A product of a rich Australian/Egyptian heritage, Dr. Sarah Yosry stands as a testament to the union of diverse cultures and a shared love for animals…
Modern Vet, in partnership with Blue Sky Pet Relocation, proudly offers a comprehensive and personalized pet travel service tailored to the unique needs...
Modern Vet's Home Veterinary Service in Collaboration with VetLiveryAt Modern Vet, we continually strive for innovation, excellence, and utmost care...
We provide a complete evaluation of all organ functions during your pet’s visit to Modern Vet. We examine for the following conditions:
Dental...
A pet needs all the affection and attention you can provide. Health care is a significant component of their daily routine. Vaccinating them promptly is...
Like emergency hospitals for people, Modern Vet provides 24 hour emergency pet care, any day of the year, even on holidays. If you think to yourself that...
Your reliable partner in caring for your pet's health
At ModernVet, we understand the importance of your pet's health and wellbeing. Our clinic...
At ModernVet, we are proud to offer advanced ophthalmology services, dedicated to the eye health of your pets. Our state-of-the-art clinic is equipped...
Veterinary orthopaedics focuses on the treatment of musculoskeletal problems in pets. Joints, soft tissue, bones, muscle, ligaments, and tendons are all...
DENTAL CARE FOR PETS
If you have a pet, it’s essential to know that they can have dental problems. Your dog or cat may need a checkup from their...
We at Modern Vet Hospital provide veterinary physiotherapy and rehabilitation services that are created to help your pet recover as quickly as possible...
Our pets are our life partners, and we want them to be happy and healthy. We know you don't have the time to spend on your pet. That's why we...
Ten thousand years ago when humans first began domesticating animals, they fell sick in detention and also due to the ailments of old age. In order to...
Feeding your pets high quality food gives them a chance at a longer and healthier life. Like humans, pets also require essential vitamins, minerals, and...
In Dubai, our unique Pet Taxi service is tailored exclusively for our furry friends, ensuring they travel directly from and to our clinics with ease and...
Skin-related issues are not limited to human beings and can plague animals too. Much like their owners, pets should also have regular visits to the...
The Modern Vet Hospital is the leading pet charity in Dubai, working closely with many animal welfare organizations to provide price concessions for TNR....
Veterinary neurology is the branch of medicine that studies and treats the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and nervous system in pets. Epilepsy, Meningitis,...
ModernVet Clinic is renowned as the only cardiology-focused veterinary hospital in your region. When searching for a 'veterinary cardiologist near...
At ModernVet, we're committed to enhancing the wellbeing of your canine companions through our specialized dog spay and neuter services....
At ModernVet, we specialize in providing top-notch cat spaying and neutering services, ensuring the best care for your feline companions. Recognizing the...
Vaccination is the process of immunization, which enhances an animal's immune system and helps it fight diseases. Vaccines are made from killed or...
You must know the pros and cons of vaccinating your cat if you're a pet owner. While some cats can be healthy without vaccination, others may not...
The modern Vet Clinic is a full-service animal hospital that provides comprehensive veterinary care for dogs in Dubai. From preventative treatment and...
At Modern Vet, we solely provide veterinarian care, boarding, and grooming for cats. Modern veterinary clinics are committed to delivering superior care...
