Tapeworm Transmission in Cats

Gastrointestinal parasites affect 45 percent of cats, according to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Tapeworms are one of the most common feline parasites. Tapeworms are transmitted via rodents and fleas ingested by the cat. While they don't typically harm the cat, in severe cases they can cause anemia and weight loss.

  1. Tapeworm Anatomy

    • True to their name, tapeworms have long, flat tape-like bodies with a small head attached to segments, each of which is filled with eggs. The tapeworm makes its home in the cat's small intestine, and as the egg sacks mature, they detach from the body of the tapeworm and are excreted with the cat's feces, according to the website Vet Info.

    Diagnosis

    • The tapeworm's segments can often be observed near the cat's tail or in its excrement. They are white and about one-quarter inch in length, like a grain of rice. Since evidence of tapeworm infection cannot always be observed in fecal samples, veterinarians often rely on owners to report observations of these segments, according to veterinarians at Cornell University.

    Symptoms

    • In addition to the appearance of the rice-like tapeworm segments, cats can also experience irritation around the anus. Repeated licking of that area is a sign of tapeworm infection. In more severe cases, cats infected with tapeworms may stop eating, or become lethargic, though this is unusual, according to the website Pet Education. While tapeworms are typically not life-threatening to a cat, in large numbers they can cause loss of appetite, weight loss and anemia.

    Treatment

    • According to the website Vet Info, tapeworm treatment medications include: Tape Worm Tabs Cat, Homeo Pet Worm Clear, Cestex, Drontal and Droncit. Medications that kill parasitic worms are known as anthelmintics or vermicides.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Tapeworms are transmitted via fleas and rodents, so keeping your home free of these creatures will protect your cat. If you have an outdoor cat, she should be treated regularly with de-worming medications, according to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.