Parasite infestations are very common in many species, and cats are no exception. Worms are by far one of the most common parasites affecting cats around the globe. Veterinarians estimate that up to as many as 45% of cats can be infected with worms at any given time, and removing them can be a difficult venture. Worms present a serious health hazard to your cat and should not be taken lightly.
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Significance
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Worms are a frequent problem for many cats. Most cats, at one point in their lives, will become infested with worms and ridding them of these intestinal parasites can be a struggle. The symptoms associated with parasite infestation are a dull coat, vomiting and diarrhea, prominent ribs and a bloated potbelly. Some pets live for years with worms, although this greatly compromises their health. Internal parasite control can be accomplished with a strict worming regimen and frequent yard cleaning.
Function
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Cats can contract intestinal worms at nearly any age. Many species of worms can be passed onto kittens prior to birth, so worming during every stage of life is important. Worms feed off the intestinal tract of your pet, eating at the lining of the organs and blood, causing impaction and anemia in severely affected pets. Worms are very hardy and can live in your pet for years if not properly treated. Parasites are passed through the stool and can embed themselves in your yard, continuing the lifecycle.
Types
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There are four basic types of worms that affect cats, and each is a potential health hazard. Roundworms are the most common type of parasite infecting cats. Roundworms live in the intestine and are contracted through infected feces or prey. Hookworms are the second most common parasite contracted by cats, and hookworms are picked up through the skin or are ingested by the cat. Hookworm infestation can cause anemia in severely affected cats. Tapeworms are not as common in cats, although they are more difficult to eliminate. Tapeworms can be passed onto humans without proper hygiene, so careful cleaning is necessary. The final type of parasite commonly infecting cats are stomach worms. Stomach worms embed themselves in the mucosa of the stomach and can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea as the cat tries to rid itself of the parasite.
Considerations
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Worms can be passed from animal to animal with incredible speed. Without a proper worming regimen, simply roaming the yard can infect your cat. While a parasite infestation seems like a daunting medical problem, it is actually quite controllable. You vet will take a stool sample from your pet and analyze it to determine exactly what species of worms is the problem. Your vet can administer a high dose of wormer to kill off existing parasites and will recommend an at-home treatment program to keep your cat worm-free.
Warning
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Worms can be very detrimental to your pet's health, and some species can also be harmful to humans. You should always wash your hands after cleaning your yard or scooping litter boxes. If you notice your cat itching her hind end or see any white, rice-like specks in her stool, you should call your vet immediately. Simple monitoring can help keep you and your cat healthy and worm-free for life.
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