Cat worms are parasites that can be found in the digestive tract, leaching on the walls of the stomach or intestines, stealing all the vital nutrients from cats. It is important for cat owners to know if their cats are infected and should be treated.

Symptoms of a cat infected with worms:

1. Weight loss
2. Lethargy
3. Pot belly appearance
4. Scruffy looking coat
5. Diarrhea (in some cases it's bloody)
6. Vomiting (or vomiting up a worm in some cases)
7. Anemia
8. Worm residuals in the anal area
9. Excessive licking on the anal area

There are 3 types of worms commonly found in cats:

1. Tapeworms - flat, long worms
2. Roundworms - spegetti shaped worms (most common in cats)
3. Hookworms - they attach to the intestinal walls and feed on blood and cause dirrahrea and anemia

Cause of worm infections:

1. If your cat has ingested soil or plant contaminated with worm ova
2. If your cat has ingested fleas that carry worm ova
3. If your cat is exposed to feces that contain worm ova
4. If your kittens are nursing from an infected mother cat
5. If your cat has ingested prey that contains worm ova

If you have multiple cats in your house, chances of them being infected together is high especially if they share the same litter boxes.

How to treat it?

If you suspect your cat may have worms, the best way to deal with it is take a sample of your cat's elimination and bring it in to the vet's. They will determine what type of worm it is and prescribe the right medication for your cat.

If you have multiple cats in your house, it is important to bring a sample of each cat's stool to help your vet determine the right de-worm medication for your cats.

Other related posts:

Kitten’s First Veterinary Exam

Five Common Cat Ailments

Heartworm Treatment for Cats

Banfield Veterinary Basic Treatment Fees