Types of Worms in Cats

"Cat worms are parasites that
can harm your cat's health."

Types of worms in cats are ringworm, roundworms, tapeworm, hookworms, and lungworms. These cat worms can be classified as external parasites (aka "ectoparasites") or internal parasites (aka "endoparasites"). External parasites are found on the outside of your cat's body. (Fleas, ticks and ear mites are also common external parasites.) Internal parasites live inside the body of your cat. All of these worms are unhealthy for your cat, and depending on the severity of the infestation, some can even be debilitating to your cat's health.

Ringworms

Ringworms (Dermatophytosis) are external parasites. This type of worm is not technically a "worm," but rather a fungal disease of the skin and hair. Ringworm is highly contagious to you and to other animals. It's always a good idea to wash your hands after petting a cat, especially one you don't know. Cats can sometimes be carriers and infect you without showing any symptoms. Many longhaired cats can carry the ringworm spores and not show any signs of the parasite.

Roundworms

Roundworms (ascarids) are internal parasites. They are very common. Some statistics say that almost one-third of all kittens under three months old have roundworm, and about 10 per cent of all adult felines have it. Roundworms are to be suspected if your cat or kitten is in otherwise good health, but somehow seems in poor shape (for example, a dull coat, gas in the intestines, diarrhea, or a pot belly).


Tapeworms

Among tapeworms (Cestodes), the most common is Dipylidium caninum (this worm also infests dogs). A tapeworm is an internal parasite and you can find evidence of these worms in your cat's litter box. These are the worms in cats that look like little grains of rice or sesame seeds that can be found in your cat's feces. Click here for information about tapeworm treatment.

Hookworms

Hookworms are internal parasites and are found inside your cat's intestines. They get their name from their hook-like teeth that attach to your cat's intestines. Hookworms are particularly dangerous to kittens.

Lungworms

Lungworms are types of worms in cats that often go undiagnosed because their symptoms (coughing and difficulty breathing) are usually only exhibited with a really heavy infection.

Worm Treatment

If you suspect that your cat or kitten is suffering from any of these types of worms in cats, it's best to get veterinary treatment immediately to prevent the infestation in your cat from becoming worse, and also to protect other pets and the humans around your cat.

Homeopathic worm treatments are also available for your cat.

Common cat health problems

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