Symptoms That Your Cat May Have Worms

Worm infestations are a common problem, and all cats are at risk of becoming infected even if they live indoors. This article explores the most common types of worm infestations and the symptoms to watch out for.

Tapeworms
Tapeworms are amongst the most common feline worm infestations and are often accompanied by a flea infestation. This is because tapeworms need two 'hosts' in order to survive. The flea is the immediate host; tapeworm eggs are passed in feces, which the larva of the flea eats. The tapeworm hatches inside the flea larva, and if your cat ingests the flea (whilst grooming for example) then, as the body of the flea is broken down, the tapeworm is released to attach itself to your cat's intestinal wall.

Tapeworms reach maturity in around 2- 3 weeks. Segments filled with eggs will then start to break off and are passed out of the body with the stools. It is possible to see tapeworms in your cat's stools or in the fur around her tail and anal area- look for small white balls that resemble grains of rice. Once tapeworm segments dry out they can resemble sesame seeds.

Symptoms of a tape worm infestation include weight loss despite constant hunger, and a rough or lack luster coat.

Roundworms
Roundworm infestations are also very common. Cats can become infected with roundworm by either killing and eating infected rats or mice or by coming into contact with an infected cat's feces. Roundworm larvae can also be passed to kittens when nursing from their mother. Roundworms feed on the contents of your cat's intestines, and so are in direct competition with your cat for nutrition.

Roundworms are around 3- 5 inches long, white in color and resemble strands of spaghetti in appearance. Look for signs of them in your cat's vomit or stools. Signs that your cat has a roundworm infestation include vomiting and diarrhea, a rough or lack luster coat and weight loss despite constant hunger. Infested kittens may have a pot-bellied appearance.

Hookworms
Hookworms are another fairly common parasite, and feed off the blood of an infested cat by attaching themselves to the intestinal wall. This can cause illnesses such as anemia and can prove fatal if left untreated, particularly in kittens or younger cats. Cats become infested by either ingesting hookworm larvae in food and drink, or by larvae burrowing through the skin. It is also thought that a mother cat may pass the larvae to her kittens when they nurse.

Hookworms release an anti-coagulant when they feed to stop the blood from clotting, so one symptom of their presence is blood in your cat's stools. Your cat may also display symptoms of anemia, such as pale gums, weakness or lethargy, and infested kittens may suffer from stunted growth. Hookworms cannot be seen by the naked eye.

Heartworms
Heartworms infect dogs more often than cats, although cats can be susceptible to an infestation if their immune system is weakened. These worms are so named as they attach themselves to the heart, lungs and pulmonary arteries and if untreated can prove fatal. Heartworm eggs are transferred to your cat from a bite from an infected mosquito.

Some cats may show no symptoms at all and may suddenly die, but signs to watch out for include breathing difficulties, wheezing, lethargy, loss of appetite and weight loss. A heartworm infestation can be difficult to diagnose and your vet may need to carry out several blood tests to determine their presence.

The best way to prevent a worm infestation is to ensure that you worm your cat on a regular basis. If your cat displays any symptoms that could indicate a worm infestation, or you have any concerns about her health, consult your vet as soon as possible.