Herbal Treatment for Worms in Cats

Cats can become infected with five different worms. Roundworms are most common in kittens, which contract it through the mother cat’s milk. Adult cats can get this parasite from contact with infected cat feces. Hookworms are contracted from mother’s milk or from contaminated soil or water. Hookworms are shed in feces, which can get mixed into the soil and picked up by the bottom of the cat’s feet. Whipworms can live for months or years in an environment. Cats of all ages can get this worm by ingesting contaminated water or the flesh of an infected animal. Cats can get a tapeworm from fleas or from eating rodents. Heartworms and whipworms are less common in cats, and are not commonly treated.



Cats that spend time outdoors and hunt for food are most prone to worms, but indoor cats can get these parasites. A veterinarian can prescribe effective dewormers, but some pet owners look to natural remedies, especially for cats that need frequent treatments.

  1. Wormwood (Artemisia Absinthinium)

    • Wormwood is used by herbalists to improve digestion and for worm infestations. It is thought to cleanse the blood and digestive tract. Since many cat worms live in the stomach and bowels of cats, this herb is thought to be effective at releasing the worms.

    Cloves (Eugenia Caryophyllata)

    • Harvested from tropical evergreen trees, cloves are used to detoxify the body and discourage pests. Its antimicrobial and antifungal qualities make it useful in treating ulcers, food poisoning and parasite infestations. Clove oil rubbed on the skin can repel mosquitoes and other pests.

    Neem (Azadirachta Indica)

    • The neem tree originates in India. Its properties are believed to be natural repellents and its wood is prized for being worm resistant. The flower of the neem is used to treat bile, intestinal worms and phlegm.

    Herb of Grace (Ruta Graveolens)

    • This herb has shown to expel intestinal worms, as well as promote cardiac health. This may be effective for treatment of heart worms in cats.

    Prevention

    • This may be the most important step in curing your cat of worms, as they can easily become reinfected after treatment. Clean and disinfect your cat areas, including around the litter box. A cat treated for worms can be reinfected by its own feces. If your cat goes outdoors, keep it inside for a few days and remove feces from the litter box promptly.