Tapeworms in Felines

According to Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, 45 percent of cats may struggle with intestinal parasites. Tapeworm infections are the most prevalent. These worms attach themselves to the small intestines. As they mature, egg-filled segments break off of the worm and pass in the cat's stool.

  1. Types

    • The two types of tapeworms that most commonly infect cats are Dipylidium caninum and Taenia taeniaeformis. Dipylidium caninum infections come from the ingestion of fleas or lice that carry tapeworms in their intestines; Taenia taeniaeformis infections stem from eating uncooked meat or fish, rodents or animal parts.

    Effects

    • The effects of tapeworms in felines include vomiting, bloody stool, a pot belly, diarrhea, a rough coat, loss of appetite and coughing. Serious conditions such as a weakened immune system and anemia may also result from tapeworm infections.

    Identification

    • In addition to displaying symptoms of tapeworms such as vomiting, a cat with tapeworms may have small rice-like segments of the worm in its stool or in the hair around its anus. A veterinarian can confirm a tapeworm diagnosis.

    Prevention

    • Most tapeworm infections stem from ingesting fleas that carry tapeworms or from eating wild rodents. To prevent tapeworms in felines, consider keeping your cat indoors and using a monthly flea treatment.

    Solution

    • Dewormers that include praziquantel, fenbendazole and espiprantel eradicate tapeworm infections. For most of these you must consult a veterinarian; the exception is praziquantel, which the FDA has approved for over-the-counter use.