How to Tell If Your Cat Has Worms

While cats are less likely to develop worm infections than dogs, their symptoms may be more severe when infection does occur. Cats, especially those that spend lots of time outdoors, can become infected with hookworms, whipworms, roundworms, tapeworms or heartworms. Only a veterinarian can confirm an infection with worms in your cat. In most cases, your cat's health can be restored with medication.

Instructions

1. Watch for symptoms of heartworms in your cat. A persistent cough, breathing difficulties, loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy, depression and sporadic vomiting are all symptoms of heartworm infection in felines.

2. Take your cat to the veterinarian to be tested for heartworms. Diagnosing heartworms in cats is more difficult than diagnosing it in dogs. When symptoms are present and heartworms are suspected, your veterinarian will perform a complete physical examination and order blood tests. X-rays and an echocardiogram may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

3. Tell your veterinarian if your cat shows any signs of infection with intestinal worms. Diarrhea, weight loss, dry hair, vomiting, bloating and general poor appearance are all symptoms of intestinal worms in cats.

4. Submit a sample of your cat's stool for intestinal worm testing. In most cases, you can bring a stool sample to your veterinarian's office, but sometimes you might be required to deliver the sample directly to the lab. A microscopic analysis of your cat's stool will help determine what, if any, worms are infecting her.

5. Check your cat's stool for signs of worms or eggs, and examine the area around her anus for symptoms of infection whenever you groom your animal. Tapeworm eggs are not always visible during a stool analysis, but they will appear as rice-like specs in your cat's feces and in the hair beneath her tail.

References

• ASPCA
• The Pet Center