What Are Cat Worms?
Cats can get different types of intestinal worms that live in their digestive system. Some common worms in cats include roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms. Kittens are especially susceptible to getting worms because their immune systems are still developing. Adult cats can also pick up worms through contact with infected feces or by ingesting parasite eggs, larvae or infected rodents.1
Worms can cause a variety of symptoms in cats. Common signs of a worm infection include:2
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- A pot-bellied appearance
- Coughing
- Visible worms in vomit or stool
Worms can be dangerous if left untreated, leading to malnutrition, anemia, and even death in severe cases. So it’s important to have your vet check for worms during annual exams and treat any infections promptly.
Are Worms in Cats Contagious to Humans?
Yes, worms in cats can spread to humans in some cases. According to the CDC, roundworms and hookworms are examples of zoonotic infections that can transfer from cats to humans [1]. When cats have these intestinal worms, their feces can contain worm eggs that are infectious to humans.
If humans ingest the microscopic worm eggs, they can end up hosting a worm infection in their own bodies. Common ways humans may ingest worm eggs include:
- Accidental ingestion from contaminated soil, food, or water
- Coming into contact with an infected cat’s feces and then touching your mouth
- Eating unwashed vegetables from a garden where an infected cat defecated
Two of the most concerning worms that can spread from cats to humans are roundworms and hookworms. Roundworm infections may cause eye issues, asthma, neurological problems, and abdominal issues in humans. Hookworms can lead to cutaneous larva migrans, lung inflammation, eosinophilic enteritis, and iron deficiency anemia [2].
Pregnant women need to take extra care, as roundworm infection during pregnancy can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, stillbirth, and newborn health problems. Young children are also at higher risk.
Can My Cat Sleep in My Bed if They Have Worms?
While it may seem cute to share your bed with your feline friend, allowing a cat with worms to sleep in your bed does pose some risks. Worms like roundworms and tapeworms can potentially spread from cats to humans through accidental ingestion of infected feces. So if your cat has an active worm infestation, it’s best to not let them sleep in your bed until the worms have been treated.
That being said, the risk of getting worms from sharing a bed with your cat is quite low. Worm eggs must be ingested to cause an infection, and simple close contact with a cat that has worms is unlikely to make you sick. Practicing basic hygiene and containing the cat’s mess can help prevent any spread of worms.
Here are some tips to prevent getting worms from a cat that sleeps in your bed:
- Have your vet diagnose and treat any worm infections right away. De-worming medication kills off the worms and prevents further contamination of the environment.
- Wash your hands after petting your cat or handling their feces, especially before eating.
- Change and wash your sheets regularly.
- Clean the litter box daily to avoid soiled litter spreading through the home.
- Bathe and groom your cat regularly to minimize external worms/eggs.
- Use monthly flea/tick prevention to control tapeworms which spread via fleas.
- Vacuum carpets and furniture to pick up any stray eggs.
With prompt treatment and good hygiene practices, you can enjoy sharing your bed with your feline friend while minimizing any risks of contracting worms. Be vigilant for any signs of reinfection and return to the vet if needed. But in most cases, a few simple precautions can allow your cat to sleep comfortably and safely in your bed.
Treating Worms in Cats
There are several effective deworming medications for cats that can eliminate intestinal worms. According to the ASPCA, some common dewormers include fenbendazole, milbemycin oxime, moxidectin, and pyrantel pamoate. These medications are available in oral tablet, liquid, or topical form.
Kittens should start being dewormed as early as 2-3 weeks of age and then every 2 weeks until around 3 months old. After that, adult cats typically need deworming at least 2-4 times per year. It’s important to follow your veterinarian’s specific recommendations on the timing and frequency of deworming based on your cat’s health and risk factors.
If you notice signs of worms persisting after a course of dewormers, take your cat to the vet for an exam and possible prescription-strength treatment. Intestinal parasites can be stubborn in some cats, so vet monitoring is key. According to the ASPCA, “cats remain infected with adult tapeworms for years” so diligent deworming is essential.
Keep Your Cat’s Environment Clean
Keeping your cat’s environment clean is an important part of preventing reinfection if your cat has worms. Fecal matter from an infected cat can contain worm eggs, so regular cleaning and disinfecting is key.
You should vacuum and wash your cat’s bedding frequently. Use hot water and detergent when washing blankets, towels, cat beds, and toys. Make sure to dry them on a hot setting as well to kill any remaining worm eggs. Vacuuming floors daily can help remove traces of feces or vomit that may contain worms.
Disinfect your cat’s litter boxes regularly as well, at least once a week. Use bleach diluted with water or other pet-safe disinfectants and be sure to scrub thoroughly. Rinse and allow to fully dry before allowing your cat to use the box again.
Cats with worms should be kept off kitchen counters and tables where human food is prepared and eaten. Be diligent about wiping down surfaces with disinfectant. Do not allow litter boxes in food prep areas either.
Following strict hygiene and cleaning routines can help protect both your cat and human family members from reinfection. Consult your veterinarian for any other specific environmental precautions when your cat has worms.
Grooming and Hygiene for Cats
Proper grooming and hygiene is important for keeping your cat healthy, especially if they have worms. Here are some tips:
Regular brushing and bathing can help remove worm eggs and larva from your cat’s fur. Use a fine-toothed comb to brush your cat at least once a week. Give occasional baths with cat-safe shampoo and lukewarm water.
Trimming your cat’s claws regularly prevents worms eggs from accumulating under long nails. Use cat-safe nail clippers to trim the sharp tip off claws every 2-3 weeks.
Check your cat’s fur and skin while grooming for signs of worms, like tapeworm segments near the tail. Also look for licking or biting of the fur, rashes, and itching as potential symptoms. Refer to https://www.smalldoorvet.com/learning-center/medical/worms-in-cats/ for more details on spotting worms.
Maintaining good hygiene through grooming can help prevent the spread of worms in your home and keep your cat comfortable.
Feed Your Cat a Healthy Diet
Feeding your cat a nutritious and balanced diet is important for supporting their immune system and preventing worms.
Veterinarians recommend feeding high-quality commercial cat food that is formulated to meet all of your cat’s nutritional needs. Look for foods that contain high levels of protein from animal sources as the first ingredient. Avoid low-quality foods with lots of filler ingredients.
It’s also best to avoid feeding your cat raw meat or fish, which can contain harmful bacteria and parasites like worms. Cooking meat and fish helps kill off any parasites or worms they may contain.
Make sure your cat always has access to clean, fresh water as well. Dehydration can make your cat more susceptible to worms and other parasites.
According to Hare Today, commercial cat foods made from fresh and/or freeze-dried raw meat contain minimal risks of parasites and pathogens while providing optimal nutrition. However, they recommend cooking meat at home before feeding to cats as an extra safety precaution.[1]
Monitor Your Cat’s Health
One of the best ways to stay on top of potential health issues like worms is to regularly monitor your cat’s health. Here are some tips:
Weigh Your Cat Regularly: Weigh your cat at least monthly. Sudden weight loss may indicate a parasite infection, so monitoring weight can help alert you early on. Use a pet scale and track weights over time. A significant drop in weight without change in diet or exercise is a red flag.
Look for Signs of Worms: Keep an eye out for symptoms of a worm infection, like a potbelly appearance, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, lethargy or a dull coat. Worm segments around the anus are a telltale sign. If you spot any of these, contact your vet.
Annual Vet Visits: Bring your cat to the vet once a year for a wellness checkup. Your vet will check for signs of worms through a fecal test or physical exam. An annual visit allows early detection and treatment if parasites are found. Preventives may also be prescribed.
Staying on top of your cat’s health through monitoring and vet visits allows you to identify and treat parasites quickly, keeping your cat comfortable and reducing risks to human health.
Protect Other Pets in Your Home
If you have multiple pets in your home, it’s important to take steps to protect them if one pet has worms. Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms can pass between pets through contact with infected feces. To prevent spreading worms:
- Deworm all pets in the household. Even if they aren’t showing symptoms, they may carry worms. Consult with your vet about safe and effective dewormers for each pet.(https://www.geniusvets.com/pet-care/learn/cats/cat-deworming/how-can-i-keep-my-cat-passing-intestinal-parasites-other-pets)
- Don’t allow pets to share food bowls, water bowls, or bedding. Worm eggs and larvae can spread through saliva.
- Clean any shared areas like floors, furniture, and litter boxes thoroughly between pet interactions.
By treating all pets and limiting contact with potentially contaminated items, you can help protect against spreading worms through your home.
When to See a Vet About Cat Worms
If you suspect your cat has worms or notice signs of an infestation, it’s important to have them checked by a veterinarian. A vet can verify if worms are present through a fecal test and provide proper treatment. You should take your cat to the vet right away if:
– Worms persist after administering deworming medication. Certain types of worms may be resistant to over-the-counter dewormers. A vet can prescribe a stronger medication specifically targeted to the type of worm.
– For kittens or elderly cats. Kittens and senior cats have weaker immune systems, making them more vulnerable to complications from worms. It’s crucial to get prompt veterinary care if they are infested.
– If your cat seems ill from worms. Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and weight loss can indicate a major worm infestation that is making your cat sick. Seek veterinary attention immediately in these cases.
Getting worms treated quickly can prevent more severe health issues in your cat. Your vet can also advise you on how to clean your home and prevent reinfestation after treatment.