Fleas contain different kinds of tapeworm larvae; if a flea is eaten, the tapeworm larvae within your cat start to thrive.
But there are other ways for your pet to get tapeworms besides this. Some cats may consume the parasite-carrying excrement of other cats.
Symptoms of tapeworms in cats
When it comes to tapeworms in cats, there are several indications to be aware of. First, look through your cat’s feces. Your cat probably has the parasite if they contain little white “grains” in them. These tiny fragments will resemble rice grains in size and have a cream color.
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Your cat may have tapeworms if they are constantly licking their anus. Likewise, biting or scratching at this region could also be a warning. To itch the region, cats often frequently drag their rear legs around the floor; if you observe your cat engaging in this behavior, they may have the parasite.
Cats that have tapeworms may also lose weight. Your cat may lose weight even when their appetite has grown. The state of your cat’s coat is the last thing to check for. Your cat’s coat may become much more dull or scruffy than usual if they have a tapeworm.
It’s critical to get your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible if you encounter any of these symptoms. Tapeworms are straightforward to treat and eradicate if discovered early.
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What do tapeworms in cats look like?
The length of tapeworms varies, but they are long, flat worms. Their body is divided into segments, and their head is equipped with hooks and suckers to aid in attaching to the gut. Though it’s unusual, you may come across a tapeworm in this form. When tapeworms start to grow, parts of their bodies split off from the worm’s main body. Often located beneath your cat’s tail, these segments resemble tiny grains of rice. They might be seen in your cat’s feces as well.
Treating tapeworms in cats
The process of treating your cat for tapeworms is not too complicated. To get a diagnosis, you must first take them to your veterinarian. They will be able to administer the appropriate medicine once they are certain that your cat has tapeworms.
Both forms of treatment are quite easy to administer and very successful, particularly if the parasite is discovered early on.
Preventing tapeworms in cats
Kittens can start receiving monthly prophylactic therapy against tapeworms at six weeks of age. They can receive this treatment every three months after six months. Depending on their needs, adult cats might receive this prophylactic medication every two to six months. Always get advice from a veterinarian to be sure preventative care is appropriate for them.
One of the primary sources of tapeworms in cats is flea consumption. One of the best ways to stop fleas from living on your cat is to treat flea spots. Using flea collars and oral treatment are additional options for de-fleaing your cat.
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Frequently Ask Questions about Tapeworms in Cats
What kills tapeworms in cats?
Cats with tapeworms must be treated with a deworming medication that includes the active ingredient praziquantel.
Can I touch my cat if it has tapeworms?
People cannot contract tapeworms directly from cats, but they can if their cats have flea infestations and those fleas contain tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum). Infants and children are most frequently affected by tapeworms, which they contract from eating infected fleas.
Should I isolate my cat with tapeworms?
If you think your cat may have intestinal parasites, separate them from other cats and keep them from sharing litter boxes since this could expose them to additional parasites.
Can cats get rid of tapeworms on their own?
No, cats are unable to eradicate worms by themselves. The parasites known as worms reside within your cat’s body, and its immune system is unable to destroy them. Worms can result in significant health issues like diarrhea, weight loss, and in extreme situations, even death if treatment is not received.
How do I clean my cat after tapeworms?
Along with any additional blankets or sheets your cat may have touched, you should carefully wash all of your cat’s bedding in a hot cycle. To ensure that all eggs are destroyed, hard floors should be treated with an antibacterial cleaner or a moderate bleach solution. Carpets can be steam cleaned to eliminate any leftover eggs.
