How to Protect Your Cat or Kitten From Parasites

Common parasites like fleas, tapeworms and ear mites not only annoy your cat, they can cause him serious health problems. Some, such as roundworms and toxoplasmosis, may be transmitted to people. Once your pet is parasite-free, the steps below will help prevent reinfestation.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Worming Medicine
• Mite Medications For Pets
• Cat Carriers
• Cat Flea/tick Collars
• Flea Combs
• Flea Shampoos
• Pet Vitamins
• Veterinarian

1. Take your cat or kitten to a veterinarian for a complete physical exam, and request tests for those parasites that are common in your area.
2. Treat your cat or kitten based on test results or as directed by the veterinarian. Some veterinarians may routinely recommend de-worming and flea prevention regardless of test results.
3. Isolate your pet from other cats and kittens until you're certain they are parasite-free. Ear mites are a common problem, especially in stray or feral cats and kittens.
4. Keep him inside to avoid contact with soil and water that may be contaminated with fecal material from other cats.
5. Prevent your cat from catching and eating birds and rodents, which may contain larval stages of roundworm and tapeworm.
6. Apply flea prevention and control products as warranted.
7. Be particularly wary of parasites such as fleas and tapeworms in the warmer seasons of the year, when they are more prevalent.
8. Schedule yearly exams as recommended by your veterinarian.

Tips & Warnings

• Common intestinal parasites are roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms and Giardia.
• Fleas are common external parasites, but ticks, lice and mites may be encountered as well.
• Heartworm disease is rare in cats, but very serious. Ask your veterinarian if your cat is at risk and needs preventive medication.
• Request information from your veterinarian about which parasites are a risk to people.
• Toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by a protozoan parasite, is transmitted through contact with fecal material. Pregnant women should be careful because the infection can harm the fetus. Have someone else change the litter box if you are pregnant, and don't forget those gloves when gardening.