What does it mean when a cat has worms?

If a cat owner notices small white specks or even pale threads in the litter tray, it means the cat has a problem with internal parasites.

These live in the digestive tract, and the problem most often affects cats that go outdoors, but indoor-only cats can become infected too. There are also parasites that live in the respiratory system, more precisely in the lungs. Owners need to be aware that a worm infestation can seriously affect a cat’s wellbeing and health. 

How can a cat pick up internal parasites?

Both outdoor and indoor cats can pick up parasites in several ways. Remember that cats that go outside are at greater risk of infestation with internal worms.

Routes of infection include:

• contact with infected animals, 
• swallowing flea larvae (which carry worms) or the faeces of an infected animal, 
• spending time in an environment where parasite eggs or larvae are present (they can be found on grass or even at home, in the litter tray), 
• eating spoiled, infected meat, 
• from an infected mother, who can pass on parasites through her milk or even across the placenta. 

Cats can not only catch worms but also pass them on to other animals, so if the problem arises, it most likely affects every animal in the household. 

What are the symptoms of worms in cats?

A parasite problem can cause a variety of symptoms. Sometimes the worms are visible in the faeces, but there are also signs that cannot be seen with the naked eye. 

The most common signs that should raise suspicion of worms include:

• loss of appetite 
• vomiting
• diarrhoea
• weight loss
• a bloated belly
• apathy or even excessive sleepiness 
• difficulty breathing 
• licking around the anus 

How can you prevent infection with internal parasites?

The most important things are always hygiene and limiting contact with other animals that may be infected. Litter trays should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Keep contact with wild animals to a minimum. 

Regular faecal tests help keep everything under control. For outdoor cats, this test is recommended once every three months. Indoor cats should be checked for parasites every six months, or at the very least once a year. 

Can people catch worms from a cat?

Infestation with internal parasites is a zoonosis, which means that humans can catch it too! This deserves particular attention if there are children in the home. 

Very often, when a veterinarian finds worms in a pet, they recommend that everyone in the household gets tested.