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An Introduction to Intestinal Worms in Cats
By Kurt Schmitt
Worms in cats are very common, especially in kittens, with infection rates as high as 75%. Typically, your vet will test your cat annually via a stool sample. Kittens are usually tested during initial vaccination visits.
Worms are parasites that feed off of their host, which in this case, is your cat. There are a number of cat parasites, but there are three major players when it comes to intestinal worms.
Roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms, are the main types of worms found in cats. During annual check ups, your vet should do a fecal exam for diagnosis. Given enough time, cats that share litter boxes will also share worm infestations. A fecal sample from one of the cats in the house is usually enough to determine if all are infected. All felines unlucky enough to live with an infected cat will need to be treated.
Below is an overview of each of the major types of worms found in cats.
Roundworms -- Roundworms (Toxocara Cati) have a spaghetti-like look to them, and you usually won't see them unless your cat vomits them up. Roundworm is common in kittens, who can become infected via their mothers, who may be asymptomatic. The mother cat may have the encysted form of the worm which lies dormant. Don't be surprised if your vet wants to worm your kitten 2-3 times, even if the test results are negative.
In adult cats, infestations of this parasite severe enough to cause illness are unusual. This is because mature cats often develop a natural immunity against roundworm.
Hookworms -- Hookworms hook themselves to the inside wall of your cat's intestines and hang on. Since they're tissue feeders, hookworms can cause blood loss, resulting in anemia. In addition, you may observe weight loss, intestinal illness, and poor hair coat. Most of the roundworm treatments used today will kill hookworms as well. Two or more treatments are required to eradicate this worm.
Tapeworms -- Tapeworms consist of segments containing eggs. The segments drop off the worm, and along with the eggs are passed in the stool. They then dry out and begin to look like grains of rice and are fairly easy to spot. You'll sometimes see them in heavily traveled areas or around the cat's anus. Cats with these worms have been known to experience anal irritation and exhibit excessive licking.
Since these worms are transmitted by fleas, flea control is essential. Your cat eats the flea after the flea eats the tapeworm egg. The tapeworm then lives in the intestinal tract of your cat, and is able to start the process over. Usually these worms do not cause any visible symptoms of illness in your cat. You cannot properly address the tapeworm issue without also addressing the flea problem, or you risk the possibility that your cat will get them again.
Tapeworms, roundworms, and hookworms are enemies of your cat. Keep in mind that while intestinal worms in cats may not always produce any visible signs of illness, your cat is still sick. Cat parasites put undue stress on your little friend, and you should do all you can to help him or her. That includes not only regular check ups, but proper care, high quality food, regular exercise, and the room to play and explore.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kurt_Schmitt
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