Cats are furry creatures that have a strong tendency to have intestinal parasitesWhat we know as earthworms are organisms that, normally, don't cause any serious problems at first, but it is important to treat the furry to avoid the appearance of symptoms that could worsen their condition and affect both their health and their relationship with their family.
In addition to the typical intestinal worms seen in feces, there are various types of worms and other internal parasites that can affect cats: nematodes (roundworms), cestodes (tapeworms), and even parasites that affect the lungs, heart, or bladder. Many cats become infested at some point in their lives, so it's essential to know how they spread, how to know if my cat has parasites and what is the treatment of intestinal parasites in catsas well as the most effective prevention guidelines.
How is the cat spread?
Intestinal parasites They can enter the animal's body in several ways.The most common way in kittens is through the amniotic fluid (the food that developing babies ingest while in the mother's womb) and through the breastmilkThis happens when the mother is infested. That's why many puppies are born or grow up with worms even if they've never been outside.
But it's not the only way: the rodents and birds They can be paratenic hosts and transmit the parasites when the cat hunts and ingests them. Likewise, some tapeworms such as Canine dipylidium They are transmitted by swallowing infected fleasso a flea problem can also turn into a worm problem.
The eggs of many nematodes and cestodes are eliminated with feces and They pollute the environment (floor, soil, litter box, grass, toys, water, or food). Cats can become re-infected by licking themselves, using a dirty litter box, or coming into contact with contaminated areas. Even the indoor cats They can become infected if the eggs or larvae are brought into the house through people's shoes or clothing.
Once inside the cat's body, the larva It migrates to the muscles and other organs such as the intestines.where it completes its cycle while feeding on the animal's blood or nutrients. Some intestinal parasites also have migration phases through the liver, lungs, or heart, which explains respiratory symptoms or systemic in certain severe infestations.
For this reason, when we adopt a cat that we know has been on the street or in an environment without any kind of care, The first thing we should do is take him to the vet.because it is very likely that it has worms and other internal or external parasites. If the animal has been on the street, the risk of infestation is usually higher.
Types of intestinal parasites in cats
Several are described in cats. types of internal parasitesalthough the most common are those that live in the digestive tract. They are usually divided into two main groups: roundworms (nematodes) y flatworms (cestodes or tapeworms)without forgetting that there are also heartworms and less common but potentially serious pulmonary complications.
- Nematodes (roundworms)They include parasites such as toxocara cati y Toxascaris leoninaLong, whitish worms that resemble small pieces of spaghetti. They are very common in kittens and can cause a swollen abdomen, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and, in severe cases, intestinal blockages.
- Cestodes (tapeworms or flatworms): as Canine dipylidium o taenia taeniaeformisThey are flatworms made up of segments filled with eggs. Their fragments can be seen in the feces or around the anus as if they were dry rice grains that sometimes move.
- Hookworms: For example, Ancylostoma tubaeformeThey attach to the intestinal wall and feed on blood, potentially causing anemiaDark or bloody stools, diarrhea, and weight loss, especially in kittens or weakened cats.
- Other internal parasitesLess frequent ones, such as lungworms (which cause coughing and difficulty breathing), bladder parasites, liver flukes or even heartworms, which can put the animal's life at risk if not detected in time.
Some of these parasites are also important in public health, since can be transmitted to people (especially Toxocara, some tapeworms and Giardia), so regular deworming of cats protects both the animal and the family.
What are the symptoms of infection?
The symptoms of intestinal parasites in cats Symptoms can vary depending on the type of worm, the number of parasites, and the animal's overall health. Some cats show few signs, while others develop obvious digestive or systemic problems. The most common symptoms include:
- Increased appetiteThe animal eats a lot, to the point that it can spend almost the entire day eating, without gaining weight because the parasites consume some of the nutrients.
- Swollen bellyThis is due to both the amount of food the kitten eats and the presence of intestinal parasites and gas. It is a very typical sign in kittens with roundworms.
- Loose stools or diarrhea: the worms irritate the intestinal mucosa, causing loose stools, occasional or persistent diarrhea, and in some cases, dark stools or with streaks of blood.
- Presence of parasites in stool or on furnitureIf the infection is severe, we may be able to see the worms themselves in the cat's feces and/or wherever it sits or lies down, especially segments of tapeworm in the form of small white grains.
- Weight loss and dull coatParasites consume essential nutrients, which can lead to weight loss. poor growth in kittens and dull fur.
- VomitingSometimes visible worms appear in the vomit, especially in severe roundworm infestations.
- Apathy or weaknessIn advanced cases, the cat appears more tired, less inclined to play, and may develop anemia if the parasite feeds on blood.
- anal itching and excessive licking of the area: typical of tapeworms, which can cause discomfort in the perianal region.
It's important to keep in mind that many of these signs are nonspecific and may be due to other digestive or systemic diseases. Therefore, when in doubt, the wisest course of action is to consult a veterinarian for an examination. stool analysis and the necessary tests to confirm whether it is an internal parasite.
How is it treated?
To eliminate intestinal parasites, we need to go to the vet so they can recommend a treatment. antiparasitic drug appropriate for the type of worm and the cat's weight. Different presentations are available: pills or syrups This treatment can be administered orally, through topical pipettes, and even by injection in specific or very serious cases. It should be given regularly to prevent the pet from getting sick and to avoid re-infestation.
As the most normal thing is that they do not want to take the pills or the syrup, We may have no other option than to mix the medication with some food they really like.such as canned wet food or highly palatable pâtés. Make sure the portion is small to ensure they eat the entire serving.
If they still don't swallow it, you'll have to open their mouth, put the syrup or the pill in, and close it by applying a little pressure (just a little, because We mustn't hurt himuntil they swallow. You can gently blow on their nose or massage their throat to encourage swallowing. Afterwards, you must give them a... cat treat as a reward to make the experience as painless as possible.
If we don't want to put them through that, I recommend asking the professional about antiparasitic pipettes. like those from Stronghold or Advocate. They are like very small plastic bottles whose contents are applied to the neck, where the head joins the rest of the body. These pipettes can be effective against various internal and external parasites at the same time (worms, fleas, mites, etc.), so they are very practical for many cats.
Modern oral and topical treatments are usually very effective and, when administered correctly, They do not usually cause significant side effectsEven so, it is essential to respect the dosage and frequency prescribed by the veterinarian and Do not use products designed for dogs or other species, since some active ingredients can be toxic to cats.
In addition to specific treatment, it is advisable maintain good hygiene of the environmentClean the litter box thoroughly (preferably daily), pick up feces from the garden or patio, wash blankets and bedding in hot water, and vacuum the areas where the cat rests to reduce the number of eggs and larvae in the environment. In homes with children or immunocompromised individuals, these measures are even more important.
With a good internal and external deworming plan, regular veterinary check-ups, and basic hygiene measures, the likelihood of your cat suffering from parasites can be reduced. serious complications The risk of intestinal parasites is significantly reduced, and you can enjoy their company with greater peace of mind.
