Introduction
Tapeworms are a common intestinal parasite found in cats. These flat, segmented worms attach themselves to the small intestine and feed off partially digested food. According to a 1995 study, there was a significant upward trend in the prevalence of tapeworms in cats (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7483240/). Some sources estimate that up to 30% of cats will get tapeworms at some point in their lives.
One common question surrounding tapeworm infections in cats is whether the worms cause increased appetite. With tapeworms feeding off food within a cat’s digestive tract, it’s reasonable to wonder if this makes cats hungrier to compensate. This article will explore what’s known about the impact of tapeworms on appetite and eating behavior in cats.
Tapeworm Basics
Tapeworms are intestinal parasites that infect cats when they ingest fleas carrying tapeworm larvae or eat infected rodents. The most common tapeworm species in cats are Dipylidium caninum and Taenia taeniaeformis. Tapeworms attach themselves to the intestinal lining and absorb nutrients from the cat’s diet, which can lead to weight loss, diarrhea, dull coat, and other symptoms if left untreated.
The tapeworm life cycle begins when fleas ingest tapeworm eggs while grooming an infected cat. Inside the flea, the eggs develop into larvae, which are then infective to cats. When a cat grooms itself and swallows an infected flea, the tapeworm larvae are released inside the cat’s intestine and develop into adult tapeworms that can reach up to 20 inches long. Tapeworm segments containing eggs break off and pass in the cat’s feces, where they can be ingested by fleas to continue the cycle 1.
Cats may also become infected by eating infected rodents. The rodents ingest tapeworm eggs, which develop into larvae in their tissues. When a cat eats the infected rodent, they become infected with the tapeworm larvae. Inside the cat’s intestine, the larvae develop into adult tapeworms 2.
Do Tapeworms Increase Appetite?
Some research suggests tapeworms may cause increased appetite in cats. One study found that mice infected with tapeworm larvae ate more food than uninfected mice, and had higher levels of the “hunger hormone” ghrelin (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3440990/).
There are a few proposed explanations for why tapeworms may stimulate appetite:
- Tapeworms in the intestines may interfere with appetite signals and cause the cat to feel hungrier.
- The tapeworm may increase ghrelin production, which signals hunger.
- The tapeworm may prompt the cat to eat more to try to compensate for nutritional deficiencies caused by the parasite.
- The tapeworm may stimulate the cat’s appetite in order to get more nutrients for itself.
While the link between tapeworms and increased eating is not definitively proven, evidence suggests it is a possibility. More research is still needed to fully understand the relationship.
Other Symptoms of Tapeworms
In addition to increased appetite, there are other signs that may indicate a cat has a tapeworm infection. According to Dr. Jennifer Coates, a veterinary advisor at PetMD, some other symptoms of tapeworms in cats include:
“Vomiting, mild diarrhea,constipation,distended/potbelly appearance,neurological disorders like twitching, seizures and/or uncoordinated movements (particularly in kittens).”
The veterinarians at VCA Animal Hospitals also note that tapeworm segments may be visible around a cat’s anus or in its feces:
“Usually, an infected cat’s owner will notice the presence of proglottids crawling on its feces. A cat will occasionally scoot or drag its anus across the ground or carpet to relieve the irritation caused by tapeworm segments.”
So in summary, key symptoms besides increased appetite are vomiting, diarrhea, a bloated appearance, seizures (especially in kittens), scooting, and visible tapeworm segments around the anus or in feces.
Diagnosing Tapeworms
Veterinarians can diagnose a tapeworm infection in cats through a fecal examination. They will take a fresh stool sample from the cat and examine it under a microscope for evidence of tapeworm segments or eggs [1]. Tapeworm eggs and segments can confirm the presence of an intestinal tapeworm infection.
Cats infected with tapeworms will often pass tapeworm segments that look like rice grains in their stool or vomit. These noticeable tapeworm segments are one of the most common signs that prompt cat owners to take their pet into the veterinarian for an evaluation [2].
If you notice any signs of tapeworms such as rice-like segments around your cat’s anus or in its stool, you should take your cat to the vet promptly for diagnosis and treatment. Catching and treating a tapeworm infection early is important to relieve symptoms and prevent transmission [3].
Treating Tapeworms
Treating a tapeworm infection in cats is important to eliminate the parasite and prevent potential health complications. There are several deworming medications that are effective at killing tapeworms:
Praziquantel – This medication paralyzes the tapeworms’ muscles and causes them to detach from the intestinal lining so they can be eliminated from the body. It is very effective at treating both Dipylidium caninum and Taenia species of tapeworms.
Epsiprantel – Epsiprantel works by paralyzing the tapeworms’ muscles as well. It is effective against both Dipylidium and Taenia tapeworm species.
Fenbendazole – Fenbendazole works by inhibiting the tapeworms’ ability to absorb glucose, causing them to starve. It is used primarily for treating Taenia species.
These medications are available as oral tablets or topical treatments from veterinarians. It is important to treat a tapeworm infection as soon as it is diagnosed because tapeworms can cause intestinal blockages, nutritional deficiencies, and allergic reactions if left untreated.
Prevention of Tapeworms
There are several ways cat owners can help prevent their cats from getting infected with tapeworms:
Control fleas: Fleas play a major role in tapeworm transmission. Flea larvae ingest tapeworm eggs, which develop into cysts inside the flea. When a cat grooms itself and accidentally swallows an infected flea, the tapeworm cyst is released inside the cat’s intestine and develops into an adult worm. Using flea control medication can help break the tapeworm life cycle and is an important prevention method.
Avoid raw meat diets: Cats fed raw meat are at higher risk of getting tapeworms, since the uncooked meat may contain tapeworm cysts. Stick to cooked commercial cat food or talk to your vet about safe raw food handling practices.
Keep cats indoors: Outdoor cats that hunt rodents are more likely to ingest tapeworm eggs present in rodent guts or feces. Keeping your cat inside reduces their exposure to potential tapeworm sources.
Control rodents: Since rodents can spread tapeworm eggs in their feces near homes and yards, keeping rodent populations down can reduce environmental contamination. Make sure trash is secured, seal entry points in your home, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
Routine deworming: Some vets recommend periodic deworming even if no symptoms are present, as worms can infect cats without obvious signs. Talk to your vet about an appropriate deworming schedule for your cat.
Managing Increased Appetite
If your cat has an increased appetite due to tapeworms or another medical condition, it’s important to manage their food intake carefully. Unchecked eating can lead to obesity and other health problems.
The key is to stick to a regular feeding schedule rather than leaving food out at all times. Feed set meal portions a few times per day rather than free-feeding. This allows you to monitor your cat’s intake.
Work with your vet to determine the ideal daily caloric intake for your cat based on their age, size, and activity level. Portion their meals accordingly.
Invest in a measuring cup to accurately portion wet and dry food. Stick to the amounts recommended by your vet – don’t be tempted to overfeed.
Use puzzle feeders or balls that make getting to the kibble more challenging. This helps slow down fast eaters.
If your cat begs for food, try ignoring the pleas or redirect their attention to playtime. Stay strong and stick to the feeding plan.
With a consistent, measured feeding routine, you can make sure your cat gets the nutrition they need without overeating, even if they act hungry all the time.
When to See the Vet
While an increased appetite may be the most obvious sign of a tapeworm infection, there are other symptoms that indicate your cat needs to see a veterinarian. Some key warning signs include:
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Weight loss or failure to gain weight. Tapeworms rob your cat of nutrients, leading to potential weight issues.
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Diarrhea or vomiting. Digestive issues point to an intestinal problem like tapeworms.
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Dragging rear end along floor. This behavior, called scooting, suggests itchy anal area which may be caused by tapeworms.
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Segmentation or rice-like pieces around anus. These could be tapeworm segments exiting the body.
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Lethargy, irritability or dull coat. Tapeworms can cause wider health impacts.
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Seizures or neurological problems. While rare, tapeworms can sometimes spread to the brain.
You know your cat best. If you notice any combination of concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your cat’s health.
Conclusion
Key takeaways from the content:
– Tapeworm infections are a common issue for cats. The parasites live in their intestines and consume nutrients, which can lead to weight loss, digestive issues, and increased appetite in felines.
– While some evidence shows tapeworms may increase appetite as they deprive the cat of nutrients, the link is not definitively proven. Increased appetite can also result from other intestinal issues caused by the infection.
– Diagnosis via fecal sample testing and treatment with dewormers is important. Prevention involves routine deworming and keeping cats away from fleas and infected prey.
– If your cat has an increased appetite along with other symptoms like weight loss or digestive issues, have your vet test for tapeworms. Controlling the infection and limiting access to fleas/prey can help curb appetite changes.
In summary, while tapeworms may potentially increase appetite in cats as the parasites rob them of nutrients, more research is still needed. Either way, diagnosing and treating a tapeworm infection under veterinary guidance is advised for any cat with symptoms like increased hunger, weight loss, or digestive upset.