Intestinal Worms

Also called: Roundworm, hookworm, tapeworm, gastrointestinal parasites

• Cats
• Digestive
• Any (esp. kittens)

Intestinal worms are common internal parasites of cats — particularly roundworm, hookworm, and tapeworm. Cats pick them up from the environment, prey, their mother's milk (kittens), or by swallowing fleas (tapeworm). Some worms can also infect people, so routine prevention protects the whole household. Many infected cats show no obvious signs.

Signs to look for

• Often none
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• A pot-bellied appearance (especially kittens)
• Weight loss or poor growth
• A dull coat
• Visible worms — roundworms look like spaghetti; tapeworm segments look like grains of rice near the anus

How a vet diagnoses it

Fecal examination for worm eggs under the microscope; sometimes worms or segments are seen directly in stool or around the anus.

Treatment

Deworming medication appropriate to the worm type (e.g. praziquantel for tapeworm), with concurrent flea control to prevent flea tapeworm. Good hygiene reduces human exposure.

Monitoring at home

Routine preventive deworming on schedule rather than waiting for signs; fecal checks as advised.

Who tends to get it

All ages; kittens are especially vulnerable. Australian schedule: kittens every 2 weeks until 12 weeks, then monthly until 6 months, then every 3 months for adults; year-round flea control to prevent flea tapeworm.

Sources

• RSPCA Australia Knowledgebase
• Cats Protection — Worms in Cats