Roundworms in Cats

Toxocara cati and Toxascaris leonina are the 2 types of roundworms that affect cats. These intestinal parasites are, on an average, 3-6 inches long. Roundworm infestation often occurs when the feline ingests worm eggs that are generally found in the moist environment of the soil. Other sources of roundworm infection are consumption of insects like cockroaches and rodents by cats.

Symptoms of Roundworms in Cats
Presence of these intestinal parasites can negatively affect cat health. Healthy adult cats, in most cases, are resistant to these worms, and hence do not show any symptoms. However, a weakened immune system of an unhealthy or elderly cat is not capable enough to fight against this infection. Even roundworms in kittens is a cause of worry. Severe roundworm infections can cause pneumonia. Following are the symptoms of this roundworm infection, especially observed in kittens.

Protruding Abdomen: A swollen belly, followed by stomach discomfort, is the most common symptom of roundworms in cats. The belly expands in cats suffering from this infection.

Diarrhea: Presence of roundworms may cause diarrhea and abdominal cramps. The frequency of bowel movements increase considerably. Diarrhea in cats is characterized by loose watery stools that may lead to dehydration.

Vomiting: Cats suffering from roundworms sooner or later vomit. Occasional instances of feline vomiting may throw the worms out of the body.

Decrease in Appetite: Less desire to eat food is one of the symptoms observed in cats infested with roundworms. This is because roundworms in cats occupy a bit of space in the stomach due to their relatively large size. This may be accompanied by loss of weight and cause stunted growth.

Unhealthy Coat: Roundworm in cats is often marked by poor coat condition. Due to this infection, the appearance of the coat completely changes. The coat looks dry and acquires a dull appearance.

Intestinal Problems: If proper treatment is not taken on time, roundworms will increase greatly in number and cause intestinal blockage. This is a serious health problem and can be life threatening particularly to kittens.

How to Treat Roundworms in Cats?

How to get rid of roundworms in cats? Well, proper and timely treatment is the perfect answer to this question. Roundworms medications formulated for cats are safe and free from any side effects. There are some over-the-counter anti-worming products available that can help eliminate roundworm infestation. As there are many deworming products available, you can consult a veterinarian to choose one that may help to reduce symptoms of roundworms in cats. These medications act like an anesthetic drug for the roundworms and forces evacuation of these worms through the cat's feces. Administering an anti-worm medication, followed by one or two deworming treatments, is essential to free the cat's intestinal tract from roundworms. Read more on:

• Cat Worms - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
• Common Cat Diseases

Thus, knowing the symptoms and causes of roundworms in cats is essential in order to provide fast and proper treatment for this infection. The cat should also be given routine worn infestation treatment to prevent occurrence of roundworms in the intestine. The risk of parasites in cats can be greatly minimized by implementing certain preventive measures. In case you have a cat, make sure that your house is clean, free from rodents and insects, as these pests are potent carriers of this infection. Newborn kittens are highly vulnerable to roundworm infestations. Hence, veterinarians often prescribe a deworming treatment when these kittens become 2-3 weeks old.