Worms in your cat’s intestines can be an overwhelming and troubling situation. These parasites can live in cats and feed off their bodies. Several different kinds of worms that attack healthy cats include roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms. These worms can affect the overall health, wellness and change bowel movements of the cats. It can lead to weight loss and other symptoms. Luckily, it is simple to watch out for your cat and protect them from these worms.
Symptoms of Worms in Cats:
The following are the symptoms that affect cats when worms infest them.
1. Dull fur
Have you noticed any change in the condition of your cat’s fur? There is a high probability that worms have infected it. Worm infested Cat fur tends to be rough, dull, limp, and lack its natural shine and lustre.
2. Sudden change in Bowel habits
When worms have infected your cat’s intestines, it can bring about a profound change in their regular bowel habits. Pain and diarrhoea in the stomach area follow. When this happens, take your cat to a vet to identify the cause behind it. An experienced vet can advise on treatment.
3. Weight loss
Healthy cats do not usually show sudden changes in weight. Worm-free cats generally tend to have a good appetite. Cats infected with worms lose a lot of weight. The parasites feed off food, blood and other vital nutrients from the intestines. Apart from this, the cat also suffers from a bloated or distended stomach. In case you find your cat losing weight quickly, it’s time to book an appointment with the vet to treat any related symptoms.
4. Visible worms found topically
When worms infest a cat, both the intestines and other parts are infected. You might find your cat infested with full-size worms, visible traces on its fur, body or stool. Cats infestations can also be transferred and manifest themselves on your carpet, bedding and clothes. It is an indication that worms are spreading at an alarming rate. Some of these worms are easily identifiable. They can also be microscopic and might look similar to white grains.
5. Changes in behavior
There are two types of changes in behavior that indicates that your cat is suffering from a worm infestation. It includes the following:
6. Lethargy
When worms feed off on nutrients inside your cat, your furry pet loses its energy. It makes them sluggish. They lose their vitality and strength and don’t seem to be their usual excited self. You begin to notice that they start to show a lack of interest in things that would otherwise get them bouncing on their paws.
7. Dragging or rubbing their bodies
Worms bite or suck off on your cat, making the infected area itchy and scratchy. You find your cat is always rubbing or dragging themselves on the floor or carpet. The itchiness makes them scratch themselves off with their paws. It’s time to get your cat to a vet to check out what’s irritating them.
Are Cats at Home Prone to Worm Attacks?
Household cats are more prone to attack from worms even though safely snuggled indoors. However, the movement of family members can carry in the microscopic worm larvae. These tiny worms can easily attach themselves onto accessories such as shoes, socks, clothing, and hair. When visiting parks, playgrounds, Gardens, or any other insect infected surroundings clean thoroughly. Discard any clothing before coming in contact with your cat. This prevents the spreading of worm infestations.
Can Worms be Transferred from Cats to Humans?
Several different types of worms easily attach themselves from infested cats on to humans. It can be accidentally ingested into human beings and infects our intestines, skin and other parts of the body, causing chronic health complications.
Always be vigilant and keep your cat healthy and safe indoors. Maintain hygiene and cleanliness by regularly washing your hands before and after touching or playing with your cat. Children are more prone to contracting cat worm infestations. Ensure that the surroundings are clean from cat fur. Wash hands thoroughly before and after meals. Do regular cleaning of the cat litter tray. Wear gloves and footwear when handling them. Keep children far away from it. Worms from cats can easily pass on to your family through contact with them. Avoid walking barefoot through infested areas. Sterilize and wash clothes and cat food bowls regularly. This helps to keep a check on the infestation.
Prevention is Better than Cure:
Prevention is better than cure not just for cats but humans as well. With proper care and hygiene, you can prevent worms from attacking your cats. Take your cat for regular checkups to a vet. They will be able to diagnose and treat any worm infestations properly. A vet will also be able to prescribe and carry out deworming treatments. This can be done through injections, tablets, powders or ointments that kill the growth of worms, eggs, and other related cat infections.
Do regular deworming treatments as a preventive healthcare step for your cat, whether or not you find worms on them or in their stool. Timely treatment can save the life of your cat and prevent infections in humans. Many of these worms are tiny and can escape the naked eye. A vet can carry out a professional examination of your cat and suggest the best course of treatment. Being proactive and taking the necessary preventive steps is better than treating them for an infestation.
Conclusion:
Cats, being the adorable and furry animals that they are, can be your loyal companion through the years. Show that you love and care for them with regular checkups for worm infestations and timely treatments at a vet clinic. Your cat will surely love you for it!