Tapeworm in cats
Written by Edith |
Alongside roundworms, tapeworms are among the most common intestinal worms found in cats. Tapeworms are long, flat worms made up of multiple segments. These segments contain eggs and break off, passing out of the body with the cat’s faeces. Two types of tapeworm are commonly found in cats: Dipylidium caninum and Taenia taeniaeformis.
Tapeworms, along with roundworms, are the most common types of worms that can live in your cat’s intestines.
How does a cat become infected with tapeworms?
Cats can become infected with tapeworms in several ways.
By ingesting an infected flea while grooming.
Flea larvae feed on tapeworm eggs found in the environment. Inside the flea, the eggs develop into immature tapeworms. When a cat grooms itself and ingests an infected flea, the tapeworms are released into the intestines. There, they grow into adult worms that attach to the intestinal wall and begin producing eggs. It is generally assumed that any cat with fleas is also infected with tapeworms, particularly the Dipylidium species.
By eating prey animals.
Cats can also become infected through prey animals such as mice and rats. Rodents ingest tapeworm eggs and act as intermediate hosts. Inside the rodent, the eggs develop into larvae, which are transmitted to the cat when the rodent is eaten. This mode of transmission is particularly associated with the Taenia tapeworm.
Because tapeworms require an intermediate host to develop from egg to larva, cats cannot become directly infected through the faeces of other cats.
What are the symptoms of tapeworm infection in cats?
Most cats do not become ill from a tapeworm infection. However, in cases of heavy infestation, some cats may show symptoms such as:
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Itching around the anus
Kittens may also experience stunted growth.
How can I tell if my cat has worms?
Sometimes, you may see tapeworm segments in the fur around your cat’s anus. They look like grains of rice. You might also find them in the cat’s faeces. However, they are not always visible!
If you want to be sure whether your cat has worms, you can have their faeces examined for worm eggs.
How do you treat tapeworm in cats?
To treat tapeworms, the active ingredient praziquantel is required. This can be found in products such as Adimere, Milbemax, and Drontal, as well as in the Dronspot Spot-on treatment. Kittens can be dewormed using Vitaminthe Paste.
If your cat is infected with tapeworms, it’s often important to treat for fleas as well.
Read our blog How often should you deworm a cat? or use our Worm Guide to determine how often your cat needs deworming.
Do you have any questions about deworming your cat? Feel free to contact us at [email protected].
