Roundworms or Toxocara Cati are one of the most common intestinal parasites found in our feline friends. Ascarids are more commonly known as roundworms, this is a nematode genus of parasitic worms. Fortunately, these pesky little worms are not life threatening to healthy adult cats, but they can be to kittens and sick elderly cats. They do not attach to the wall of the intestine, but swim freely in the intestinal tract.
Dr Traversa says: “Ascarids and ancylostomatids are the most important parasites affecting dogs and cats worldwide, in terms of diffusion and risk for animal and human health. Different misconceptions have led the general public and pet owners to minimise the importance of these intestinal worms.”
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Content:
- How Do Cats Get Roundworms
- Signs of Roundworms in Cats
- How to Get Rid of Roundworms in Cats
- Conclusion
How Do Cats Get Roundworms
Cats of any age are susceptible to worm infestations. The most common routes of infection with the roundworm specifically are orally, such as: trans mammary (while nursing as a kitten) or from ingestion. Dogs and cats can be infected by roundworms by ingesting an infected host that is harbouring the larvae (such as birds, rodents, earthworms or insects), or consuming the eggs from their surrounding environment.
If you spend long periods of time away from home a Petcube Camera is a worthwhile investment to check in on your feline friend to see if they have been hunting and are possibly consuming an infected host.
Once eggs are swallowed, they hatch in the gastrointestinal tract. The larvae can migrate through the organs and muscles of the cat. They return to the gastrointestinal tract to mature and reproduce; these eggs are then shed in the faeces of the infected cat and can thus infect other cats in the home.
Signs of Roundworms in Cats
It is very important to regularly deworm your pets, even if they are only indoors and in a controlled environment. They may have been harbouring round worms from when they first nursed. Signs of roundworm infestation to looks out for are:
- Bloated stomachs
- Poor growth (in kittens)
- Dull coat
- Inappetence
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea and/or vomiting
- Anaemia
- Worms in faeces
“In cats, infections with nematode parasites, including roundworms (Toxocara cati and Toxocara leonina), hookworms (Ancylostoma tubaeforme and Ancylostoma braziliense), and whipworms (Trichuris spp), typically are subclinical, but some infected cats may appear unthrifty, have a reduced rate of growth, or develop clinical signs, including diarrhoea and anaemia.” says Dr. A de Santis and Dr. M Raghavan.
How to Get Rid of Roundworms in Cats
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to your pets. Roundworms are easily eliminated with deworming products that are available from your local veterinarian. It is usually recommended to deworm your pet every 3 months and keep their tick and flea control up to date as fleas are carriers of certain types of worms, such as tapeworms.
If you suspect any of the above-mentioned symptoms in your cat it is important to take them to your veterinarian for a thorough examination. If you suspect a worm infestation, take a fresh stool sample for your veterinarian to test for worms and their eggs. Medical insurance is always a worthwhile investment for your pet’s health, such as Petcube’s Emergency Fund.
“Diagnosis of patent infections can be obtained by faecal examination, and treatment consists of the use of anthelmintics.” Says Dr. P. Overgaauw, “Control of the infection and disease is achieved by prevention of contamination of the environment, anthelmintic treatment strategy, and education. Special attention is given to the efficacy of anthelmintics against adult worms and against somatic larvae.”
Conclusion
Even if your cat is healthy, they can have worms causing them some discomfort.
It is best to deworm your pet regularly and stay current with their deworming schedule. Unfortunately, deworming medication does not kill the immature forms of the worm or larvae, so two to three treatments are needed where a heavy worm burden is present. This is typically given at 2–3-week intervals.
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