This short article is focused on helping you understand how to tell if your cat has worms. Cats are one of the animals that are most commonly known to have worms. There are many types of different worms that affect cats, but in different ways depending on the type of worm and where it is located in the body of the cat.
How do you know if your cat has worms?
1. Diarrhea
If your cat is experiencing diarrhea, it may be a sign of having worms. They can get intestinal parasites from ingesting small animal or rodent feces that contain worm eggs. The eggs will hatch and travel through the cat's system causing them to have diarrhea. If you notice this in your cat, take him or her into a pet store or veterinarian that will be able to give your cat a fecal exam.
2. Weight Loss
If your cat is eating more and losing weight, there is a good chance they have worms. A recent study done by Bayer has shown that cats who are infected with roundworms will eat more food but not gain any weight. The worms will actually cause the cat to use their food as energy, which is why they won't gain any weight.
3. Anemia
Cats can become anemic if they have a tapeworm or roundworm. This occurs because these parasites feed on the red blood cells and proteins in the body of your pet. If you notice your cat has paleness in their face or gums, trouble breathing, or increased heart rate it is time to take them to the veterinarian right away.
4. Lethargic
If your cat seems to be very tired and not able to move around well this may be a sign that they have worms. A lot of times cat owners know that their pet has worms because they are lethargic or do not have an appetite. If this is the case, take them to the veterinarian for a check-up right away.
5. Vomiting
If your cat is vomiting it may be a sign that he or she has worms. Some of the most common worms that affect cats are roundworms and tapeworms. These two types of parasites can cause your cat to have a vomiting problem because they take up room in their stomach. If a lot of space isn't taken up by food, these worms will eat any other food that is being ingested into the body. This will cause the cat to throw up the food and get rid of it.
Types of worms cats can get
1. Roundworms
Roundworms are some of the most common types of worms that affect cats. They are usually found in kittens, but adult cats can have them as well. These types of worms are white and slimy which is why they are so easy to pass through your cat's system if you do not take him or her to the veterinarian. Roundworms are usually found in the intestinal tract of your cat but can be found in other parts of their body as well. Once these types of parasites begin to grow, they will cause diarrhea and vomiting for your cat.
2. Tapeworms
Tapeworms may seem like a pretty harmless parasite, but in actuality, they can cause a lot of harm to your pet. This type of worm will travel from place to place in your cat's body and feed off the nutrients. They are very easy to pass from one animal to another so it is important that if you have other pets in your home that they get their own tapeworm medicine.
3. Whipworms
One of the most common types of worms found in cats is a whipworm. This parasite can be contracted by eating rodents or other small animals, which is why it mostly affects outdoor cats that have been hunting. The only time they infect indoor pets is if they have been digging into the dirt and ingested the eggs. If you start to notice that your cat has bloody stool or diarrhea, it is time to take them to the veterinarian for some tests.
4. Hookworms
Hookworms are roundworms that can cause a lot of damage to your cat's system if they are not treated right away. These types of worms can be contracted by cats, dogs, and humans. If you notice your dog is constantly digging in one place and not moving much it may be a result of hookworms.
5. Whipworms
One of the most common types of worms found in cats is a whipworm. This parasite can be contracted by eating rodents or other small animals, which is why it mostly affects outdoor cats that have been hunting. The only time they infect indoor pets is if they have been digging into the dirt and ingested the eggs. If you start to notice that your cat has bloody stool or diarrhea, it is time to take them to the veterinarian for some tests.
Conclusion
If you notice any of these symptoms that your pet may have a worm problem it is important that you take them to the veterinarian right away. They will be able to run some tests and determine if your cat has worms or not. If you have other pets in your home, make sure they get their own tapeworm medicine so they do not get sick too. The best way to prevent worms from coming back is by getting your pet worm medicine and making sure that they eat a healthy diet.
