If your cat or kitten has become a little sluggish, has an abnormally round and distended abdomen, or is rejecting or can't keep down food, then roundworms may be to blame. These common parasites can be treated fairly easily if found early, so an accurate diagnosis is important.
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Facts
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Roundworms are the most common type of feline intestinal parasitic infection. Kittens should be treated for roundworms, regardless of whether they have displayed symptoms, as part of a regular wellness plan. Roundworms are easily identified and treated. If your cat starts to show symptoms or you notice worms in her fecal matter, take her to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
Symptoms
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A cat infected with roundworms could suffer from abdominal discomfort. You might be able to see a distention of the abdomen. The cat may refuse to eat or vomit what you feed him. However, the symptoms are not always so evident. It is important to pay attention to both vomit and feces, keeping an eye out for worms.
Identification
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Adult roundworms are between 3 and 6 inches long. They are tubular in shape and have an appearance similar to spaghetti. They are usually white. Your veterinarian can identify the presence of roundworms if you bring in a feces sample.
Methods of Infection
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Roundworm eggs are passed through a host's excrement. They will remain dormant until a new host is found. Unfortunately, the eggs are extremely durable and can lie in wait for years. Direct infection can occur if a cat ingests an egg while grooming. A cat also can become infected if it consumes another infected animal; this is known as an intermediate host. Although these are most commonly rodents, cockroaches, earthworms and birds also can become carriers. Pregnant cats are particularly vulnerable. Developing worms can inhabit the mammary glands and can be passed on to nursing kittens.
Dangers
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Roundworms are pernicious parasites that can cause extreme discomfort and even death. The larvae take up residence in the lungs of the host and can cause pneumonia. The worms consume nutrients from the cat's food. Large numbers of worms could eventually obstruct the cat's intestines.
Treatment
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The treatment for roundworms is easily accessible and extremely effective. Both over-the-counter and prescription treatments are available. A de-worming solution will cause the worms to pass in the stool. However, because most treatments are futile against immature worms and larvae, several administrations are required to make sure all of the parasites are removed.
Prevention
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You can take several preventive steps. Litter boxes should be regularly emptied of feces. Cleaning the litter box and surrounding surfaces with a bleach solution will help rinse away the eggs. The bleach will not kill the eggs and can be dangerous to your cat, so make sure to rinse any contaminated surfaces thoroughly. Keep your yard clear of all animal feces. Notify your local animal control when you see stray animals.
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