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How do Cats get Worms?

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Lindsay Butzer, DVM
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

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Lindsay Butzer, DVM
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

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Like dogs, cats can also get worms. Even indoor cats are susceptible to getting worms. In fact, kittens are born with intestinal worms. They are passed from the mother's body through the placenta into the kittens' bodies before they are even born. Worms can also be passed onto kittens through the mother's milk.

Generally, cats can get worms by coming in contact with eggs or infected pieces of feces. Worms can also be contracted by hunting and eating rodents that are infected with worms. Fleas also play a huge role in the infestation of worms. Cats can become infected by ingesting fleas carrying worms or if worm larvae bite the cat.

Cats most commonly contract roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. Roundworms and hookworms live in the intestines and tapeworms live in the intestines and other organs, like the liver. When in your cat, these internal parasites drain your cat's blood and nutrients. Cats can also get heartworms, which live in the heart, are spread by mosquitos, and can be deadly.

Symptoms your cat has worms

Mucus or blood in feces
Worms in feces
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Coughing
Dull fur
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Swollen belly
Anemia

If you suspect your cat has worms, take them to the vet to have a fecal test done and talk to your vet about starting them on a deworming product. Cat dewormers come are available as topical or oral medications. Below are some recommended products for cats with worms.

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