Nurture explains the importance of regular cat worming
April 14, 2024
Did you know that April is National Pet Month? This is a time to not only celebrate the lives of our beloved pets, but also to focus on the responsibility of pet ownership. Part of the responsibility of being a cat parent includes ensuring they remain happy and healthy through effective parasite control.
In this article, our team at Nurture are talking about worms…
While cats may not always show obvious signs of a worm infestation, these parasites can pose serious health risks to both your pet and your human family. Below, we’ll explore why regular worming is important for cats and how you can take proactive steps to protect your pet’s wellbeing.
Order our vet-recommended cat worming products
Before we dig in, why not share a photo or video of your feline friend on our Facebook page and let’s celebrate the joy of pet ownership together!
Why are worms such a problem for cats
Below, our cat-loving team at Nurture explains which worms are problematic for cats, how they become exposed to them, and the health implications:
- Roundworms: Roundworms are one of the most common intestinal parasites found in cats. They are particularly prevalent in kittens, as they can be transmitted from the mother cat to her offspring through the placenta or milk. Adult cats can also become infected through ingestion of roundworm eggs from contaminated soil or prey. Roundworms in cats can lead to various health issues, including gastrointestinal disturbances, malnutrition, and in severe cases, intestinal blockages.
- Tapeworms: Tapeworms in cats are another common intestinal parasite. They typically infest cats that hunt and eat rodents or other small animals, as well as cats that ingest fleas containing tapeworm larvae. Tapeworm segments, which resemble small grains of rice, may be visible around the cat’s bottom or in their faeces. Tapeworms in cats can cause symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, and irritation around the bottom, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies if left untreated.
- Hookworms: While hookworm infections are less common in the UK compared to some other regions, they can still affect cats, particularly those who spend time outdoors. Hookworm larvae can penetrate the skin of cats or be ingested from contaminated soil. Hookworms in cats can result in symptoms such as anemia, weakness, and bloody diarrhea, posing a serious threat to their overall health and well-being.
Vet Rachel, explains that in severe cases, untreated worm infestations can even be fatal, particularly in kittens and senior cats with weaker immune systems.
When it comes to tapeworms in cats, Rachel stresses that certain species of tapeworms, can also be transmitted to humans, posing a potential risk to your human family’s health. This is especially concerning for young children or individuals with compromised immune systems. By keeping your cat’s worming treatment up to date, you’re not only safeguarding their health but also minimising the risk of transmission to your human loved ones too.
How often should you worm your cat?
The frequency of cat worming can vary depending on factors such as your cat’s age, lifestyle, and overall health. In general, our vets at Nurture recommend worming adult cats at least every three months, while kittens may require more frequent treatments, typically starting from 3 weeks of age. Outdoor cats or those with access to hunting prey may need more frequent de-worming to ensure adequate protection against parasites.
Choosing the best cat wormer products
Our vets in Wells can recommend the most appropriate vet-recommended worming product for your cat based on their individual needs and lifestyle. Additionally, many of these products also offer protection against other common parasites, such as fleas and ticks, providing comprehensive care for your cat.
If your cat hasn’t been wormed in a while or you’re not sure which cat wormer products are right for their individual needs, get in touch with our friendly team at Nurture who will be happy to advise you.
Talk to us about cat worming products
Before you go, please do pop over to our Facebook page and share a photo or video of your feline friends to celebrate National Pet Month with us.
