1. Fecal-Oral Transmission:
* Direct Contact: Cats can pick up worm eggs or larvae from the feces of infected cats by sniffing, licking, or grooming.
* Indirect Contact: Worm eggs can be picked up from contaminated surfaces like food bowls, litter boxes, or even your hands and clothes.
2. Ingesting Infected Prey:
* Fleas: Certain types of roundworms (like *Toxocara* and *Toxascaris*) are passed through fleas. When an infected cat swallows a flea, the worm larvae mature in the cat's intestines.
* Other Animals: Some worms, like *Toxocara* and *Baylisascaris* (roundworms), can be transmitted through the ingestion of infected rodents, birds, or other small animals.
3. Mother to Kitten:
* In Utero: Some roundworms (like *Toxocara*) can cross the placenta and infect kittens before they are born.
* Through Milk: Kittens can also become infected with roundworms (like *Toxocara*) by nursing from an infected mother.
Important Notes:
* Different worms, different transmission methods: Some worms (like tapeworms) are passed through the ingestion of infected fleas.
* Not all worms are easily transmitted: Some worms, like hookworms, require direct contact with infected feces for transmission.
* Prevention is key: Regular deworming and flea control are essential for preventing worm infections in cats.
If you suspect your cat may have worms, it's crucial to consult with your veterinarian. They can perform a fecal exam to identify the type of worm and recommend appropriate treatment.