Visible Worms in Cats

Intestinal parasites, or worms, are common in kittens and even adult cats. However, some are more dangerous than others. Some can also be transmitted to humans. As always, there is no substitute for a veterinarian's advice. If you know or suspect that your cat or kitten has worms, see your vet immediately.

  1. Tapeworms

    • Tapeworms in cats can be anywhere from 4 to 24 inches long and live in the intestines. They consist of a head and numerous small segments, which break off inside the intestines and pass out of the body in feces. They can often be seen around the anus or in feces. Infection occurs by ingesting a flea, which carries them, or a small, infected rodent. They are the least dangerous feline intestinal parasites.

    Roundworms

    • Roundworms are common in cats. They tend to be several inches long and are brown or white in color. They can sometimes be seen in a cat's vomit or stool. They can infect both cats and humans. While they are most commonly found in kittens, they can infect a cat of any age. They also contaminate the cat's environment.

    Hookworms

    • Hookworms are named for the hook-like mouth appendages that they use to attach to the intestinal wall. According to the Cat Health Guide, they are classified as "tissue feeders," but they also suck blood from their hosts. They can infect kittens as young as 3 weeks of age and often kill them by causing severe anemia. Like roundworms, they too can cause disease in adult cats and humans, particularly children. They can contaminate the cat's surroundings also (see ref. # 1).

    Prevention and Treatment

    • Treatment of any type of worms in cats should be carried out by a veterinarian. There are over-the-counter remedies available, but a vet can accurately diagnose which specific parasite is present and treat it with veterinary medication.

      Prevention is easier, and often less costly, than treatment. Certain flea and tick preventatives, such as Feline Revolution, also prevent intestinal parasites. Keeping your cat inside, away from sick cats and rodents or birds, is another preventative measure. Finally, if you have a sick cat in a multiple-cat household, keep it away from healthy ones. Cats that live together tend to groom each other, thereby spreading infection. Also, keep your cat's bedding, litter box and dishes as clean as possible.