Worms in Cats: All you need to know about it
Regular worming is crucial for the health of both pets and their owners, making it an essential part of pet care.
Worms in Cats: How They Start
Toxocara parasites live in the digestive systems of dogs and cats, and they release their eggs in their faeces. Kittens can carry worms from birth, either passed down from their mothers or ingested from their mothers’ milk. Without deworming from around the age of two weeks, kittens can accumulate many worms by the time they are eight weeks old.
How Cats Catch Worms
Cats can catch worms from their mothers through:
- Ingestion of larvae in mother’s milk
- Ingestion of worm eggs in their environment
- Flea infestations, which can lead to tapeworm infections
- Hunting and scavenging, which may expose them to intestinal worms
Signs of Worm Infestation
Keep an eye out for these signs:
- Visible worms in your pet’s faeces
- Weight loss
- Abdominal swelling or a potbelly appearance
- Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
Health Risks to Both Cats and Humans
Worms don’t just pose health risks to cats; they can also affect humans. Infected pet faeces can contaminate soil, sand, or litter trays, and when people come into contact with them, they may ingest the worms. Toxocariasis is a rare but serious infection caused by roundworm parasites and can lead to various symptoms, including eye problems. Children are particularly vulnerable as they are more likely to come into contact with contaminated soil.
Treatment and Prevention
To protect your pet from harm caused by worms, it’s essential to follow an effective worming regimen. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best treatment plan for your pet. Veterinarians can provide more effective dewormers than those found in pet stores or supermarkets.
If you have any questions about your pet’s worm medicine, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian.
By ensuring regular worming and proper care, you can keep your cat and yourself healthy and happy.