Read About Feline Worms

 - Facts

1. Problem Definition:

   Cats are occasionally infested with worms such as hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms, roundworms and heartworms. These almost microscopic worms live in the intestines of the cat and obtain their nutrition from them. Very often, they are the cause of stomach upsets and more serious problems.

2. Symptoms:

   Worms can be seen in the feces of the cat. The cat might have irritation around its posterior end. There are other symptoms like fever, anemia, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea.

3. Duration of Problem:

   Worm problems end soon after one or two doses of medicine. However, the problem may not go away completely as some eggs or larvae may still persist. Also, a cat that is once affected stands a better chance of getting affected again.

4. Exposure:

   Feline worms are contagious. If another cat comes in contact with any excrement of an affected cat, then it also would get worms. Worms also pass through contaminated food and water. But the most serious problem is, worms can enter from cats to children through contact.

 - Prevention & Treatment

1. The Treatment:

   There are many simple and inexpensive medicines available to treat the problem of worms in cats. These medicines are given orally, and generally, just one or two doses of the medicine are enough. Medicines containing Fenbendazole are given to cats suffering from worms.

2. Prevention:

   There are no 'one-time' vaccines available, but the vet can prescribe a monthly medicine that will help keep the cat free from worm problems.

3. Precautions:

   A proper and clean diet is one of the most important things to keep worms away. Do not let cats share food with unfamiliar cats and keep up with regular vet checkups.

4. Helpful Supplies:

   Give your pet the proper diet, and preventive medicines the vet prescribes.

 - Concerns

1. Level of Seriousness:

   Feline worms rarely become a serious problem because they can be treated so effectively and quickly. But if they are neglected, they can give rise to several kinds of complications in the cat, which may even lead to death. Also, these worms can enter human bodies and make the situation more serious.

2. Lasting Consequences:

   A onetime infection of worms won't last long if proper medicines are taken. But in most cases, it is seen that eggs and larvae of the worms still persist, and there are secondary infections.

3. Genetics:

   Feline worms have no genetic links.

4. Lifestyle Accommodations:

   Your cat must be given only a healthy, well-balanced and nutritious diet. Regular vet checkups must be kept up.

5. Expense:

   Curing worms is not quite expensive. One can de-worm a cat completely in less than $100, but must take care to prevent any re-infection.