Cat worms and their symptoms: why is regular prevention necessary?

Cat worms (parasitic worms) are one of the most common health problems among cats.

Intestinal worms are most commonly found in cats, but the parasites can also take up residence in other organs, such as the lungs and heart, causing serious health problems.

Therefore, it is very important to be aware of the possible symptoms caused by cat worms, preventive measures and deworming methods.

The most common worms found in cats in veterinary medicine

There are various types of cat worms, but the most common are roundworms and tapeworms (flatworms), which are most often found in the cat’s intestines. Roundworms and heartworms are less common but no less dangerous.

1. Nematodes (Toxocara cati, Toxascaris leonina). Roundworms are one of the most common types of intestinal parasites found in cats. They cause various digestive disorders, poor appetite and weight loss. Cats often become infected through contaminated food or contact with soil contaminated by the feces of other infected cats.
2. Tapeworms – flatworms (Dipylidium caninus, Taenia spp.). This type of cat worm usually enters the body through fleas, which can infect feral cats or cats that go outdoors. Cats infected with tapeworms may experience abdominal discomfort, weight loss, fatigue, and tiny white segments of the worms may be visible in their feces.
3. Lung worms (Aelurostrongylus abstrusus). These worms lodge in the cat’s lungs and can cause breathing problems. Roundworm infection causes heavy breathing, coughing, shortness of breath, weight loss and, in severe cases, can lead to serious lung disease. Lungworms are most commonly spread by small rodents or infected birds, and cats become infected by hunting them.
4. Heartworms (Ruthless heartworms): These feline worms cause a dangerous condition called dirofilariasis. Cats infected with these worms may experience shortness of breath, lethargy, coughing, weight loss, and if the infection progresses significantly, it can be fatal. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, so this risk is greater during the warmer months.

Symptoms that indicate the presence of worms in cats

Worm infections can manifest themselves with various symptoms, depending on where the parasites have settled in the body. Here are some of the main symptoms that can indicate the presence of worms in cats:

• Weight loss
• Poor appetite or changes in appetite
• Abdominal swelling or discomfort
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Segments of worms visible in the stool or around the anus
• Cough or shortness of breath (especially with lung or heart worms)
• Tiredness and apathy

It is important to pay attention to these symptoms, as a long-term untreated infection can seriously harm your cat’s health.

When should cats be neutered?

Flea control is an essential preventative measure that helps protect cats from various parasites.

Experts advise deworm cats at least once every 3-6 monthsdepending on their lifestyle.

Cats that spend a lot of time outdoors are at greater risk of becoming infected with worms and should therefore be dewormed more frequently.

Kittens should be dewormed for the first time around 6 weeks after birth, as young animals are particularly susceptible to worm infections, which can quickly compromise their health.

Prevention of worms of cats is necessary 10-14 days before the annual vaccination.

Ways to deworm cats: tablets and drops

Veterinary clinics offer several effective methods of deworming, depending on the preferences of the owner and the cat.

1. Tablets. Tablets are one of the most commonly used methods for treating worms. They are effective and usually work on various types of worms, but giving them to some cats can be difficult. To ensure effective deworming, follow your veterinarian’s instructions for dosing based on your cat’s age and weight.
2. Drops of skin. This is a very convenient deworming method, in which the drug is applied directly to the cat’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The drops are effective and convenient to use, since cats often do not even notice the application of the drug. This method is especially useful if your cat cannot swallow tablets or if protection against different types of parasites is needed, including external ones such as fleas.

How to ensure effective deworming?

For best results and to avoid reinfection, we recommend:

• Keep an eye on your cat’s health
• Clean and disinfect your cat’s living space
• Be sure to get regular checkups, especially if your cat hangs out with other animals or spends a lot of time outside

A visit to the veterinary clinic is a necessary step

Cat worms are not a pleasant thing. If you notice any of the symptoms listed above or need advice on regular prevention, we recommend you visit Begemotas Veterinary Clinic in Vilnius.

Here, qualified specialists will provide professional assistance and select the most appropriate deworming method, taking into account the individual needs of your cat.

Preventive measures and timely deworming help maintain your cat’s health and protect it from serious complications, so it is worth taking regular care of your pet.