Roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms infestations regularly distress cats and their owners. Cats can become infested with tapeworms in two ways: eating a flea which is carrying the egg of the tapeworm or by eating a rodent which is already infested with tapeworms.
Roundworms can infest cats and kittens by passing from breast milk. Roundworms can get in to the adult cat through fecal matter or contaminated food. Roundworms give kittens a pot belly appearance. It is important to take care of roundworms immediately as they can cause intestinal blockages in your cat.
Hookworms can also enter the body from the fecal matter of an infested animal, contaminated food, breast milk, and the placenta. Hookworms attach themselves to the intestinal wall and feed on the blood of the host. These worms tend to stunt growth in kittens and make them weak. Symptoms of hookworm infestation include anemia, fatigue, bloody stools, and poor fur condition. Hookworms can cause anemia in both kittens and adult cats as they tend to feed on blood.
Worm infestations can be diagnosed by checking the feces of your cat for eggs. If you notice rice like segments around your cats' anus, sleeping area, or in his or her feces, it is likely that your pet has tapeworms. The segments are pieces that have broken off the adult worm, when the segments die they resemble rice grains.
Worms can be easily treated with oral medication. Your veterinarian will prescribe treatment which works best for your pet. If your pet has become infested with tapeworms due to flea consumption, it is likely that he or she also has a flea problem, in which case your veterinarian will prescribe treatment for that as well.
