It is estimated that three out of every four cats carry intestinal
worms. Not only can worms make your cat sick, some species of worms
can also be transferred to humans, with children being most at risk.
Already Using Worming Medication Click
Here For A FREE Reminder Service
from Novartis Animal Health
Worm Types
Hookworms
in cats may reach 7-12 mm in length and can infect animals from
the environment.
This occurs when worms are swallowed or penetrate through the
skin.
Hookworms cause a variety of clinical signs, including weight
loss, poor appetite, diarrhoea, lethargy and depression. |
 |
Roundworms
may reach 10 cm in length, and can infect cats when worms are
swallowed.
Roundworms cause a variety of clinical signs, including coughing,
diarrhoea, vomiting, bowel obstruction, pneumonia, a dull coat
and a swollen abdomen. Severe infections can be fatal. |
 |
Tapeworms
may reach 50-60 cm in length. The Common Flea Tapeworm (Dipylidium
caninum) infects cats after ingestion of infected fleas. The
Taenia Tapeworm (Taenia taeniaeformis) infects cats after they
eat infected rodents.
These tapeworms cause irritation and itching around the anus
but are not considered to be a major health risk.
|
 |
Control of Gastrointestinal Worms in your cat
Regular de-worming of all pets, including pregnant queens and kittens,
will minimise infestation of your cat and help prevention infection
of humans.
It is also important to maintain a hygienic environment:
Remove faeces from litter trays and children's sand pits and dispose
of thoroughly clean sleeping areas regularly
Feed your cat quality cooked or tinned meat or better still a complete
diet such as Hills
Always wash your hands after handling your pet and before eating,
and remember that it is particularly important for children to be
taught this!
Do not let pets lick your face
Use a complete flea control programme, and control other intermediate
hosts such as rats and mice
De-worming your cat
A wide variety of cat de-worming preparations are available from
the Barrier Animal Care Clinic, including basic multi wormers and
combination medications which incorporate flea control and ear mite
control. (If you need a little help to give your cat pills, read
our advice on the best method to give your cat
medication.)
All wormer preparations vary in the frequency of dosing, please
refer to the packaging supplied and drug label for more information.
If you would like any advice on gastrointestinal worm control in
your cat, please don't hesitate to contact
us or drop in and speak to one of our staff.
Already Using Worming Medication Click
Here For A FREE Reminder Service
from Novartis Animal Health
|
