Cats with Worms: 6 Telltale Symptoms Detected

Symptom 1: Vomiting and Diarrhea

Many internal parasites that cats can contract can disrupt their digestive function and harm their gastrointestinal tract, leading to frequent episodes of vomiting and dry heaves. In cases with a high infestation, cats may even suffer from diarrhea. If you're a cat owner who hasn't regularly dewormed your pet and notice that your kitten is often vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, it's advisable to take them to the vet for a fecal examination to check for parasitic infections. Additionally, consider administering deworming medications like Fenbendazole tablets regularly to keep your cat free from internal parasites.

Symptom 2: Excessive Sleepiness

Is your cat suddenly more tired than usual, even when their routine is unchanged? This could be a sign of internal parasites. These pests absorb nutrients from your cat's body, leaving them with insufficient energy to maintain their usual activities, resulting in lethargy and excessive sleepiness.

Symptom 3: Weight Loss

Cats can be prone to gaining weight, but if yours is eating a lot yet seems to be losing weight, it might be due to the nutrients being absorbed by parasites within their body. Be vigilant and ensure you deworm your cat promptly!

Symptom 4: Rough Coat

Rough, brittle fur can be a symptom often overlooked. When cats are infested with parasites, they may lack the energy to groom themselves properly, and malnutrition can lead to a rough, fragile coat that's prone to shedding and matting. Regular deworming is essential to maintain your cat's coat health.

Symptom 5: Frequent Scratching at the Rear End

Cats infected with tapeworms often scratch at their rear ends. Tapeworms are a common internal parasite in cats, and most broadspectrum deworming medications can eliminate them. While deworming your cat, don't forget to thoroughly clean your living space to prevent your cat from ingesting any worm eggs.

Symptom 6: Worms in Feces

Discovering moving worms in your cat's feces or around their anal area is a clear sign of internal parasites. If the infestation is severe, it's crucial to deworm your cat immediately. If your cat refuses to take deworming medication, you can mix the medication with their food.

It's generally recommended to deworm your cat at least every three months. However, if your cat frequently consumes raw meat or lives in a dirty environment, consider deworming them every one to two months. For information on external deworming, check out "How to Choose External Deworming Products for Pet Cats."