White Worms in Cats

Although cats are susceptible to a variety of internal parasites, white worms can be evidence of infection by roundworm, tapeworm, coccidia or heartworm.

  1. How Cats Get Worms

    • Kittens with worms most often inherit them from their mother. Adult cats tend to catch worms either from insects, such as flea or tick bites, or because they were exposed to the feces of an infected cat. Even if the feces are removed, harmful, infection-causing eggs may potentially remain.

    Roundworm

    • Common in kittens, roundworm is often inherited from the mother. These worms are not seen except when vomited and are best described as the shape of spaghetti. If left untreated, roundworm can potentially present a health hazard to children.

    Coccidia

    • Coccidia are parasites that can cause diarrhea, especially in young cats. They often do not cause illness; however, they should be treated when there are bowel symptoms.

    Tapeworm

    • These worms are acquired from fleas. The tapeworm, made up of a long series of segments, will drop segments of the worm, visible in the stool or around the rear of the cat. These white worms resemble a grain of rice. Although unappealing, these parasites seldom cause illness.

    Treatment

    • Deworming medications may be used to rid cats of intestinal worms. No single dewormer removes all types of worms. However, many products are effective for more than one type. Deworming medications are available as tablets, capsules, chewables and liquids.