Worms are the most common intestinal parasites found in cats, causing worm cat infections in both adult cats and kittens worldwide. The most prevalent type of worm cats can get includes roundworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. These worms often use an intermediate host in their lifecycle. A roundworm infection or worm infestation can be concerning and should be treated promptly. Symptoms of worms include the presence of worm eggs in the feces. Although they usually don’t have long term effects, it's important to address any symptom of worms in your cat.

How a cat becomes infected with worms depends on the type of worm. A worm cat infection can occur when a cat accidentally ingests worm eggs or an intermediate host, such as an infected animal or insect. This can lead to various types of worm infestations, including roundworm infections. Both adult cats and kittens can suffer from these intestinal parasites. The presence of worm eggs and other symptoms of worms indicate an infestation that should be addressed promptly. More detailed information on the causes and treatments of worm infestations is provided below.

There are several species of worms that can affect cats, with the most common being roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms.

Roundworm infections are the most common intestinal parasites in kittens and cats. These worms are long, white, and resemble spaghetti. Their eggs are passed in the feces and can survive in the soil for months or even years. The causes of roundworm infection in cats can depend on the type of worm and typically include:

• Direct ingestion of eggs from contaminated soil, such as by licking them off their paws.
• Consumption of an intermediate host, such as a rodent that has ingested worm eggs from the environment.
• Ingestion of worm larvae from their mother’s milk (specific to Toxocara cati). This is a rare case, but most newborn kittens acquire roundworms this way.

Another type of worm that can infect cats is tapeworms, specifically Dipylidium caninum and Taenia taeniaeformis. Tapeworms are long, flat, and segmented, with each segment containing eggs. These segments are regularly shed in the feces and can appear as grains of rice, sometimes visible around a cat's anus or on their bedding.

To complete their lifecycle, tapeworms need an intermediate host that consumes their eggs from the environment. Cats become infected by ingesting this intermediate host, which can be fleas or rodents. Therefore, if your cat is diagnosed with fleas, it will likely need treatment for tapeworms as well. Similarly, if your cat hunts and eats rodents, tapeworm treatment will be necessary.

You can find out more about treating cat flea's with our easy guide.

Whipworms are intestinal parasites that can affect cats. Cats can become infected with these worms by ingesting food, soil, or water contaminated with whipworm eggs. These resilient parasites can survive in the environment for several years. Whipworms do not affect humans and are not easily transmitted to people.

In a household with multiple cats, an infestation cause could include contamination from a litter box or infected fleas. Symptoms of whipworm infection in cats can include loss of appetite, lack of energy, and general discomfort. For accurate diagnosis, a fecal examination by a vet is recommended. 

If whipworms are detected, your vet may prescribe deworming medication. Effective flea and tick control is also crucial to prevent reinfection, as fleas can serve as intermediate hosts for other worms. For the best results, always follow your vet’s advice on treatment and medication.

Hookworms are intestinal parasites that can affect both cats and dogs. They have hook shaped mouthparts that allow them to attach to the intestinal wall and absorb nutrients. Cats can become infected by ingesting rodents or licking soil contaminated with hookworm larvae. While these worms are often not visible, your vet can diagnose a hookworm infection through appropriate testing.

Heartworms are dangerous parasites that affect the heart, blood vessels, and lungs. They are transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Unfortunately, there is no cure for heartworm in cats, making monthly preventative treatments the only effective protection.

Lungworms are acquired when a cat drinks contaminated water or eats birds or rodents that carry lungworm larvae. After the larvae move through the cat’s intestines, they migrate to the lungs, where they mature into adult worms and lay eggs. These worms are then expelled either through coughing or in the cat's feces. Lungworms are often difficult to diagnose because their symptoms, primarily respiratory issues, can mimic those of other conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Fortunately, lungworm infections are relatively rare.

Stomach worms are transmitted through the vomit of an infected cat, and they’re most common in free roaming cats or those from multi cat households. Symptoms of stomach worms include loss of appetite, chronic vomiting, weight loss and malnutrition, though infected cats may remain asymptomatic. Luckily, stomach worms are easily treatable.

Bladder worms are uncommon in cats and are often difficult to detect because they typically do not show clinical signs. In cases of severe infection, cats may display symptoms similar to those of urinary tract infections or diseases. Bladder worms are expelled through the cat’s urine.

Liver flukes in cats primarily affect the small intestine, liver, pancreatic duct, and bile duct. These parasites live in water and infect cats through a secondary host. The liver fluke first infects an intermediate host, typically a land snail. This snail is then consumed by a lizard or frog, which serves as the liver fluke's secondary host. 

When a cat ingests this second intermediate host, it becomes infected with liver flukes. Liver flukes are most commonly found in warm subtropical regions, such as Florida and Hawaii.

In the rest of this article, we will primarily focus on the most common intestinal worms: roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms.

While some cats may not show any symptoms, there are several signs related to worm infestations that you should monitor.

We’ve compiled a list of common symptoms of worms in cats for you to watch out for. If you notice any of these signs, be sure to consult your vet.

A change in fur condition can also be a symptom of worms in cats. If a cat's coat becomes coarse and dull, losing its usual sheen, it may indicate a worm infection. This is particularly concerning when accompanied by a distended abdomen, a common sign of worms in cats.

You might notice worms or segments of worms in your cat’s stool or around their anus, or even in their bedding.

Worms in cats can vary in size for example, roundworms can grow up to 10 cm long, although you may not usually see them at that length. These worms are typically white. Look for whole worms or parts of their bodies. Tapeworm segments often resemble small white "grains." If you observe these signs, it could indicate a cat infection that requires veterinary attention.

This is a strong symptom of worms in cats. If your cat is dragging its bottom along the carpet, it could be due to irritation from a worm infection. This behavior, known as "scooting," is common in both cats and dogs as they attempt to alleviate the discomfort caused by worms.

Cats with worms in cats often continue to have a good appetite, but you might observe weight loss despite a normal food intake. If your cat is losing weight, it's essential to consult the vet. A distended or bloated stomach, combined with weight loss, may indicate a worm infection. In such cases, it's crucial to address the issue promptly with appropriate worm treatment to prevent further damage. For a cat household, timely intervention is key to managing and preventing worm infections.

You may also notice changes in your cat’s bowel habits, which could indicate worms in cats. It's important to keep an eye on their litter box for any unusual signs and contact your vet for advice. Addressing these symptoms promptly can help prevent further damage and manage a potential cat infection effectively.

Cats with worms are often lethargic and may exhibit a lack of energy or diminished interest in activities that normally excite them. This is because worms feed on your cat's stomach tissue, preventing them from absorbing essential nutrients from their food.

Frequent or occasional vomiting can be a key sign of a worm infestation in cats. Worms can irritate the digestive system, leading to nausea and vomiting. If your cat is vomiting regularly or intermittently, it's important to consider a possible worm infection and consult your vet for a proper diagnosis.

Cats may eat more than usual because worms interfere with nutrient absorption. The worms disrupt the digestive system, leading to increased hunger as your cat tries to compensate for the lost nutrients. If you notice this change in appetite, consult your vet to check for a possible worm infection.

Yes, cats can experience changes in bowel habits due to worms, including the onset of diarrhea. While diarrhea can be a symptom of a worm infestation, it is crucial to consult your vet to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment if your cat exhibits this issue.

Remember, preventing worms in cats is more effective than treating them after an infection. Regular worming helps protect your cat from potential infestations. Consult your vet to determine the best preventative measures and how often to treat your cat to avoid a worm infection.

Kittens should start monthly preventative treatments for tapeworms at six weeks of age, and continue every three months starting at six months. Adult cats typically require treatment every two to six months. Your vet will provide specific advice tailored to your cat’s needs.

In addition, cats can contract worms by swallowing fleas that carry worm eggs, so preventing flea infestations is also crucial. Fleas can also be found in the litter box, which may contribute to worm infections and cause damage.

There are various treatments available for cats with worms, and your vet can recommend the most appropriate one for your cat. If you observe any symptoms of worms, it's important to schedule an appointment with your vet as soon as possible to address the issue promptly.

Deworming cats is straightforward with a range of treatment options available, including liquids, pastes, granules, palatable tablets, and spot-on formulations. You can select the most suitable option for your cat. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging and adhere to the recommended schedule for the chosen product.

Given that roundworms are especially common in kittens, starting treatment early is crucial. It’s advised to deworm kittens every two weeks from two to eight weeks of age, then monthly until six months old, and every one to three months thereafter. Kittens only need tapeworm treatment if they have fleas.

For adult cats, deworming should be done every one to three months with a product that targets both roundworms and tapeworms.

There are five main types of dewormers available for your cat:

• Tablets
• Liquids
• Pastes
• Spot-on treatments
• Injectables

To determine the most suitable dewormer for your cat, always consult your vet. They are the best resource for recommending the right worm treatment based on your cat’s specific needs.

Yes, worms can be brought into the house on clothing, shoes, or other items. Although indoor cats have less exposure to the outside environment and might seem less likely to contract worms, it is still possible.

Indoor cats still need regular worming treatments to prevent infections. It is generally recommended to administer these treatments every three months.

Feline roundworms can pose a health risk to humans. Contact with cat feces or contaminated soil can lead to ingestion and infection. To minimize risk, children should avoid playing in areas where cats defecate, and children's sand pits should be covered when not in use to prevent contamination. Gardeners should wear gloves to avoid coming into contact with contaminated soil, and litter boxes should be cleaned daily.

Worming your cat is straightforward, and maintaining a regular worming schedule not only keeps your cat healthy but also helps prevent infections in humans.

Yes, cats can contract worms from dogs, usually by ingesting feces from an infected dog.

Worms can cause significant discomfort for cats, especially those with heavy infestations or related complications. Gastrointestinal issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and cramping can lead to considerable pain. Additionally, as some worm larvae move through the cat’s internal organs, they may cause inflammation in the affected tissues, exacerbating the cat's discomfort.

The type and severity of a worm infection in cats can cause significant health problems if left untreated. Untreated worms in cats may lead to severe issues such as malnutrition, anemia, and intestinal obstructions, which can become life-threatening. These conditions can cause considerable damage to your cat's health. Prompt treatment of worm infestations is essential to prevent these serious complications and protect your cat from further harm.

The best way to prevent worms in cats is to maintain a regular deworming schedule based on your vet's recommendations and keep up with flea control, as fleas can carry worm larvae. Additionally, ensure your cat's environment, including their litter box, is clean, and discourage them from hunting or eating potentially contaminated prey. Regular veterinary check-ups will help catch any early signs of worm infections and address them promptly.

The time it takes to get rid of worms in cats can vary depending on the type of worm and the severity of the infection. Generally, effective deworming treatments can start clearing worms within a few days to a week. However, completing the full course of treatment and following up with your vet is essential to ensure the infestation is fully resolved and to prevent reinfection.