Roundworms, also known as ascarids or nematodes, are caused by the Toxocara worm. Treatment typically includes both a flea medication and several doses of a dewormer. Rarely, these tapeworms (specifically Echinococcus) can be very harmful to humans, so treatment is always important. This can cause intense itching in your cat, including excessive grooming and also dragging the rear end across the floor or carpet. This often looks like small, white pieces of rice (or sesame seeds). Pet owners may notice small pieces of tapeworm breaking off and getting stuck to the perianal area, tail, or feces in the litter box. Tapeworms are caused by a Cestoda worm (e.g., Taenia, Dipylidium caninum, Echinococcus, Mesocestoides, etc.) and are long, flat worms that attach to your cat’s gastrointestinal tract. Also, they can spread to humans and other pets, while contaminating the environment for a long time! For that reason, it’s important to learn about worms in cats and how to treat them. As gastrointestinal worms feed on nutrients that your cat should be getting, they can result in chronic wasting, pain, discomfort, and weight loss in cats. Gastrointestinal parasites occur in cats that have not been appropriately dewormed, and are very common in young kittens. That said, the most common are those that affect the gastrointestinal tract: tapeworms, roundworms, and hookworms. Previously, we talked about the numerous types of worms (such as heartworm) that can affect cats. Was your cat just diagnosed with “worms?” As a veterinarian, I see a lot of gross things in my profession-and worms in cats and dogs top the list. Written by Justine Lee, DVM, DACVECC, DABT
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