Intestinal Parasites (Worms)
Detailed information about Intestinal Parasites (Worms)
Intestinal Parasites (Worms)
Species: Cat
Breeds Affected: All breeds (kittens especially)
Overview
Infection of the digestive tract with parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, coccidia, or Giardia. These infections are common in cats, with kittens often acquiring roundworms from their mothers. Parasites can cause malnutrition and gastrointestinal irritation, and some are zoonotic.
Symptoms
- Many cats with a light parasite load show no symptoms. When symptomatic
- signs include diarrhea (sometimes with mucus or blood)
- vomiting
- weight loss
- poor growth (in kittens)
- a pot-bellied appearance
- and a dull coat.
Treatments
Appropriate deworming based on parasite identification is indicated. Broad-spectrum dewormers are commonly used. Preventive deworming and regular fecal examinations are recommended.
Medications
Pyrantel pamoate to treat roundworms and hookworms; fenbendazole (Panacur®) as a broad-spectrum dewormer for roundworms, hookworms, certain tapeworms, and Giardia; praziquantel for tapeworms; and sulfadimethoxine or ponazuril for coccidial infections.
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