While the possibility of having worms is definitely greater for outdoor cats, your indoor cat is also at risk. Fleas and worm eggs can enter the home on our shoes, clothing, other pets, potting soil or house flies.
What are some types of parasites found in cats?
Roundworms and tapeworms are the most common intestinal parasite found in cats. Roundworms can make their way to your cat via their mother’s milk, or ingestion from contaminated soil and rodents. Tapeworms can appear after a cat has ingested contaminated fleas or rodents.
If my cat has worms, what symptoms should I look for?
Diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss and abdominal bloating can be signs that your cat has some wiggly worms tagging along. Worm segments can sometimes be seen in your cat’s stool, or near their hind end.
Are worms dangerous to humans?
Human contact with soil, or feces contaminated by roundworm, can pose a risk of infection. Keep your family away from soil that is frequently used by cats, and wear gloves when cleaning the litter box. Roundworms can cause eye, lung, heart and neurologic issues in people.
What is the deworming schedule?
For kittens, we recommend deworming every 2 weeks, until 3 months of age. We suggest that outdoor kitties continue with monthly treatments and indoor kitties should be dewormed every 2-4 months.
Are there any side effects from deworming medication?
Side effects are rare but can include vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. Parasites may also become visible in the cat’s stool.
