What are intestinal parasites?
Intestinal parasites, many of which fall into the class of nematodes, are usually spread by the fecal-oral route. When your cat, especially one that spends time outdoors, picks up something contaminated by another animal's feces, they can ingest these parasites while cleaning themselves. These parasites can cause various health issues, so it’s important to stay vigilant.
Dr. Glennie Ferniany
Village Veterinary Clinic
How do intestinal parasites impact the health and well-being of your cat?
One of the most noticeable symptoms is diarrhea. Cats with intestinal parasites can also appear quite thin. This is especially common in kittens found outside with a heavy worm burden; they often have diarrhea and seem unthrifty. Once treated for parasites, their health generally improves significantly.
What are preventative measures that can be taken to ensure my cat doesn't get worms or other parasites?
Many heartworm preventatives, recommended for year-round use, also treat intestinal parasites. It's also important to check for parasites annually. If your cat has diarrhea, it's wise to bring a sample from the litter box to the vet, as it can be challenging to collect one directly from the cat.
What are some signs and symptoms of intestinal parasites in your cat?
Common signs include diarrhea, sometimes bloody or very soft stool, and occasionally vomiting. Cats with a heavy parasite load can appear thin and unthrifty. Tapeworms, for example, may be visible in vomit. Outdoor cats are more prone to these infections and should be dewormed at least annually. Note that ringworm, a common concern, is not an actual worm but a fungus, often presenting as patches of hair loss and itching.
Can you see worms in your cat's stools?
While some worms are visible, such as roundworms (resembling spaghetti) and hookworms (resembling threads), whipworms are usually not visible. The most common visible worms are tapeworms, which look like small grains of rice or cucumber seeds stuck to the fur around the anus or in the stool. Tapeworms require a specialty wormer for treatment.
How will a veterinarian diagnose intestinal parasites in your cat?
Diagnosis involves examining a fecal sample mixed with a solution that makes parasite eggs float to the top. A slide is then placed on top of the solution to collect the eggs, which are examined under a microscope. Newer tests that detect the genetic material of parasites provide a more sensitive and accurate diagnosis, especially in cases of diarrhea or difficulty obtaining a sample.
Why is early detection and diagnosis of intestinal parasites so important?
Early detection is crucial as prolonged infections can damage the intestinal lining, leading to more severe diseases and a higher susceptibility to other illnesses. Timely treatment can prevent these complications.
When should my cat see a veterinarian for deworming?
Indoor cats should be dewormed at least once a year, while outdoor cats or those that are avid hunters may need to be dewormed twice a year. If you have any questions about cat deworming, please contact us at Village Veterinary Clinic. We are here to help.
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