Deworming

Regular deworming can be a vital part of your cat’s health. Depending on the type of worm, they each come with their own health risks to your cat. We recommend discussing the best deworming schedule with your veterinarian at your appointment.

What are some types of parasites found in cats?

Some of the common intestinal parasites include roundworm, hookworm, and tapeworm. Outdoor cats are most prone to these, as they can be contracted through hunting and eating infected feces. Indoor only cats are still at risk, as these parasites can be brought into the home and your cat can contract them from grooming themselves.

If my cat has worms, what symptoms should I look for?

You may or may not notice worms in your cat’s stools. One common worm will look like spaghetti noodles, whereas another will look like rice segments around your cat’s rectum. Most cats may not show any symptoms, which is why we recommend testing their stools on a yearly basis, in combination with a dewormer during the warmer months when they are most at risk.

Are worms dangerous to humans?

Some common worms can be transmitted to humans. They are often referred to as “zoonotic”. It is imperative that you wash your hands after cleaning your cat’s litter box. Children and those that are immunocompromised are most at risk.

What is the deworming schedule?

The deworming schedule will be different for every cat depending on their lifestyle. At your cat’s annual physical examination, this schedule can be determined with the veterinarian.