Intestinal Parasites (Worms)

Intestinal Parasites (Worms)

Species: Cat

Breeds Affected: All breeds (kittens especially)

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.

• 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.

Appropriate deworming based on parasite identification is indicated. Broad-spectrum dewormers are commonly used. Preventive deworming and regular fecal examinations are recommended.

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.

• Columbus Veterinary Reviews , Columbus
• The Veterinary Relief Company , Columbus
• James Herriot Memorial Veterinary Hospital , Columbus
• German Village Veterinary Hospital , Columbus
• East Columbus Veterinary Hospital , Columbus