Worms are one of the most common intestinal parasites in cats, and they can affect both domestic and stray felines. Although they often go unnoticed in the early stages, they can cause significant symptoms and affect the animal’s overall well-being if not detected and treated in time. In this article, we explain everything you need to know about worms in cats, how to identify them, prevent them, and treat them safely.
What are cat worms?
Worms are intestinal parasites that live in a cat’s digestive system. They feed on the nutrients the animal consumes, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, and intestinal discomfort. Some species can even release toxins or damage organs if not treated properly.
Cats can become infected with worms in several ways: by ingesting eggs or larvae in the environment, by hunting infected prey (such as mice or birds), or even through fleas. That’s why prevention is key, especially for cats that go outdoors or live in contact with other animals.
Types of worms in cats
Roundworms (Toxocara cati)
Roundworms are among the most common in cats, especially kittens. They live in the small intestine and can grow several centimeters long. These worms absorb nutrients from digested food, causing malnutrition, abdominal swelling, and general weakness.
One of the most visible signs is that they may appear in the feces or vomit, which makes them easier to identify. There is also a risk of transmission to humans, which makes them a public health concern if not controlled with regular deworming.
Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum)
Tapeworms are flat worms that live in a cat’s intestine and can measure over 30 centimeters. Their segmented shape means parts of the parasite can detach and appear in feces as small grains of rice, something that often alarms owners seeing it for the first time.
Infection usually occurs through ingestion of infected fleas, which makes it essential to also control fleas in the cat’s environment. While they usually cause mild symptoms, they can lead to anal discomfort, weight loss, or changes in appetite.
Hookworms (Ancylostoma spp.)
These parasites attach themselves to the cat’s intestinal wall, where they feed on blood. Their presence can cause anemia, dark or bloody stools, and lethargy, especially in young or weakened animals. They are not always visible to the naked eye and are usually detected through veterinary tests.
Infection can occur through contact with contaminated soil, particularly in areas with a high presence of stray cats. Additionally, they are one of the types of worms in cats that can also affect humans, which makes controlling them even more important.
Most common symptoms of worms in cats
The presence of intestinal parasites in cats is not always detected at first glance. In many cases, symptoms develop gradually and may be mistaken for other digestive or behavioral issues. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to any changes in habits or physical condition. Below, we explain the most common signs associated with worms in cats.
Changes in appetite
One of the most common symptoms is a change in appetite. Some cats may show a sudden increase in hunger, while others may almost stop eating altogether. This is because worms compete for nutrients, which forces the cat to seek more food or, on the contrary, causes stomach discomfort that reduces appetite.
If this change persists for several days or is accompanied by weight loss or apathy, it may be a warning sign. It is not normal for a cat to have such marked fluctuations in eating habits without a clear reason. A veterinary visit can help confirm whether worms or another underlying cause are present.
Vomiting or diarrhea
Worms can irritate the digestive tract and cause vomiting or intermittent diarrhea. Sometimes fragments of the parasite can even be seen in vomit or feces, especially in cases of tapeworms or roundworms. This is usually a clear indication of infestation.
Beyond the discomfort it causes, these symptoms can lead to dehydration if not treated promptly, especially in kittens or older cats. Any prolonged episode of vomiting or soft stools should be treated as a warning sign and requires veterinary attention.
Swollen abdomen
Abdominal swelling is a typical sign in cats with worms, especially in severe infestations or in kittens. A rounded belly, even if the cat is thin, is often a direct result of parasites in the intestine that cause gas and stool retention.
This symptom may go unnoticed if the cat has long fur or if the change occurs gradually. However, an abnormally swollen or hard abdomen is always a cause for concern and should be checked promptly.
Itching or discomfort in the anal area
Another common sign is that the cat licks, bites, or drags its rear end on the floor frequently. This behavior may indicate anal itching or irritation caused by the expulsion of worm segments, especially in the case of tapeworms.
Although it may also be due to other issues, such as blocked anal glands, it is a behavior that should be closely observed. If it is accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms, it is very likely related to a parasitic infestation.
How to prevent worms in cats
The best way to protect your cat from intestinal parasites is through preventive care. Although they cannot always be completely avoided, there are several measures that significantly reduce the risk of infection, especially if your cat goes outdoors or lives with other animals.
One of the most important actions is regular internal deworming, following the schedule recommended by your veterinarian. There are tablets, spot-on treatments, or syrups that help eliminate or prevent different types of worms in cats, tailored to each situation and age.
It is also essential to control fleas, since some worms, like tapeworms, are transmitted through these insects. Keeping the environment clean, preventing the cat from hunting infected prey, and regularly checking their feces can make a big difference in keeping them healthy and parasite-free.
How to treat worms in cats
If your cat already shows symptoms or the veterinarian confirms the presence of worms, treatment will depend on the type of parasite detected. There are specific antiparasitic treatments that eliminate worms in just a few days, but they must be administered under veterinary supervision, as an incorrect dose can be ineffective or harmful.
During treatment, it is important to monitor the cat’s progress, ensure they stay well hydrated, and regain appetite and energy. In more severe cases, treatment may need to be repeated or combined with supplements to restore intestinal balance. It is also advisable to reinforce hygiene during these days: clean the litter box thoroughly, avoid direct contact with feces, and wash textiles where the cat sleeps.
Prevention and treatment are essential, but nutrition also plays a key role. At Onlyfresh, we prepare natural, balanced menus without artificial ingredients, designed to promote healthy digestion and strengthen your cat’s immune system. Proper nutrition is also a way of protecting them from the inside out.
