Roundworms--toxocara leonine and cati--are just two species of roundworm that infect house cats. These worms can be acquired through eggs in soil picked up by the feet or fur of cats and ingested during grooming. They can also be passed through the milk of nursing infected queens (mother cats). Unless the infection is severe, many cats do not show any symptoms or could be misdiagnosed.
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Diarrhea and Vomiting
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Common symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to severe dehydration and death. These two symptoms can indicate intestinal blockages and nutritional deficiencies caused by the worms and can lead to death, especially in kittens.
Abdominal Discomfort and Potbelly
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Even if the cat is not exhibiting other symptoms, if they have a potbelly or show pain or discomfort, rounds worms are a likely culprit. A single roundworm female lays hundreds of eggs per day. The bloating and discomfort can be caused by the thriving populations of round worms.
Anemia, Dull Hair, Lethargy and Weight Loss
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Even when other symptoms do not present, hair loss, a lackluster coat, body changes or changes in fur can be caused by the roundworm infection. Other illnesses could be to blame for these symptoms on occasion, but it's best to rule out a parasitical infection first since they can prevent essential nutrients from being absorbed by the animal.
Stunted Growth and Development
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Due to nutritional deficiencies caused by round worm infection, kittens may slowly develop both mentally and physically. Adult cats and kittens may also stop playing, eating or grooming.
Other Symptoms
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Round worms can move into the respiratory tract or lay dormant in muscle tissue. By moving out of the digestive tract and into other organs, roundworms may prevent the absorption of nutrients and lead to other health problems including respiratory infections, pneumonia, liver issues, and heart and kidney problems.
Test and Deworm Before Symptoms Show
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Pregnant cats and kittens at two-weeks of age should be de-wormed. Even if there are no symptoms, Long Beach Animal Hospital says it's best to catch the infection early. Veterinarians recommend regular testing of adult cats and early testing of kittens before symptoms show. Over-the-counter de-worming products are not designed to treat roundworms, only prescription strength treatment will work.
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