Vet Insights: How to Get Rid of Worms in Cats Naturally
If your cat is dealing with intestinal worms or your vet has recommended deworming, it’s crucial to explore all available options.
While natural remedies, such as herbal supplements or dietary changes, may seem appealing, they often fall short of effectively eliminating worms in cats. Understanding why these methods fail can help you make informed decisions for your pet’s health.
Intestinal worms can significantly reduce a cat’s quality of life
Let’s explore why natural remedies alone often fall short in effectively addressing worm infestations in cats. It’s important to emphasize that intestinal worms are not a minor issue—they can cause serious health complications in your cat's body and, in severe cases, may even be life-threatening.
How Cats Get Internal Parasites: Common Causes Explained
Before we proceed, it’s important to debunk a common myth: worms are not just a problem for outdoor cats. Indoor cats can also become infected with intestinal parasites.
Here are the most common reasons why some infected cats, even those who live indoors, may develop worm infections:
Exposure to contaminated environment
One common way worm eggs can enter your cat's digestive system is through contact with contaminated items like food or water bowls, litter boxes, or other surfaces that may harbor parasites, such as tapeworm eggs.
This is why cleaning your cat's litter box daily is essential, especially if you have multiple cats. Adult worms can lay eggs in the litter, increasing the risk of infection for your feline companions. In rare cases, severe infections can even result in death.
Ingesting infected fleas
Another common way cats can contract intestinal parasites is by ingesting infected fleas. Fleas, along with small rodents, birds, and cockroaches, often serve as intermediate hosts for various worm species, particularly tapeworms and roundworms.
Pet owners should consult a veterinarian for worm treatment if there is a flea infestation among household pets. Fleas can also infect humans, potentially transmitting diseases and causing allergic reactions.
Consuming infected feces and prey
An infected cat's stool can be a significant source of parasites. Feces from other household animals may also contain worm eggs, which can easily find their way into your cat's intestine.
Hunted prey, such as birds and rodents, can also introduce worms to cats. Implementing strict prevention measures is particularly important for indoor cats, as they are less likely to have natural exposure to parasites and may be more vulnerable to infestations.
Ingesting contaminated food or water
Contrary to popular belief, worms in cats are not only transmitted from other infected cats. They can also be acquired by consuming contaminated food or water, regardless of the worms’ stage in their life cycle.
Common examples include raw foods that were improperly stored or handled, as well as food left exposed to the environment for extended periods.
Mother to kitten transmission
An infected mother’s milk is an often-overlooked source of worm transmission to kittens. Worms or eggs can pass from the mother to her offspring during nursing, leading to an early infestation in the kittens’ digestive tract.
In rare and severe cases, intestinal worms from the mother's milk can cause intestinal blockages in very young kittens. This is one of the reasons why regular deworming and physical examinations are essential for maintaining your cat’s health.
An Infected Cat Will Require Conventional Help Against Adult Worms
Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed natural remedy for treating worms in cats. Over the years, I’ve seen many well-intentioned attempts by cat owners, from using diatomaceous earth to neem oil and more.
While completely eliminating worms naturally may not be feasible, there are several proactive steps you can take to reduce your cat’s worm burden and support their digestive health.
As we explore treatment options for worms in cats, it's essential to focus on conventional methods, which are typically the most reliable. Although natural remedies, such as coconut oil, apple cider vinegar and ginger powder, have shown some benefits in other animals, there is no direct evidence of their effectiveness in felines.
However, as a holistic veterinary practitioner, I believe that combining properly chosen home remedies with conventional treatments can help your pet recover more quickly from a worm infestation.
Telltale Signs Your Cat Could Be Suffering from Worm Infections
Recognizing your cat's symptoms is a crucial step in managing parasites. These signs may also appear in other animals affected by these unwanted visitors. If you observe any of the following symptoms, consult a vet promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment:
- Unexplained weight loss and lethargy can occur because worms and their eggs siphon vital nutrients from their hosts.
- A cat with worms often develops a pot-bellied appearance, a symptom particularly common in kittens.
- Adult roundworms and similar parasites can cause bouts of vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. During a fecal exam, worms or eggs are sometimes visible in the cat's stool. Additionally, pale gums may be noticed, often as a result of dehydration.
- Intestinal worms may become visible in your cat's fur or anal area, particularly if the infestation is severe. They can migrate to nearby regions, such as the lower legs or belly. During this time, an infected cat often grooms itself excessively, attempting to relieve the irritation.
Seek veterinary advice promptly if you notice these symptoms. Delaying treatment can worsen your cat's condition and may lead to a medical emergency.
Raw Food Can Cause Problems in a Cat's Digestive System
Commercially prepared raw food is typically frozen at temperatures of -10°C or lower to ensure safety during shipping and storage.
Parasites cannot survive prolonged exposure to such icy conditions, with an average of 18 days of freezing required before the food is considered safe for consumption.
These diets typically exclude organs such as the brain, bladder, and intestinal tracts, which often harbor high concentrations of parasites.
The ongoing debate around raw pet food often sparks conflicting opinions. Based on my professional experience, I advise against raw feeding due to the frequent cases I encounter, such as cats with Toxoplasmosis infections and dogs suffering from tapeworms or Neospora.
My position against raw feeding is reinforced by numerous cases of dogs and cats affected by intestinal parasites and other health issues linked to raw diets. To significantly reduce the risk of worm infestations in your cat, I recommend choosing a cooked homemade diet, commercial kibble, or a combination of both.
Ivermectin: A Secret Weapon Against Worms in Cats
Dubbed the "wonder drug," ivermectin has revolutionized anti-parasitic treatments since its discovery in the late 1970s by Japanese researchers.
Its effectiveness against a wide range of internal and external parasites stems from its natural origin as a fermentation byproduct of Streptomyces avermitilis, a soil-dwelling bacterium. As a powerful tool in feline parasite control, ivermectin continues to play a pivotal role in combating worm infestations in cats.
Probiotics for Better Intestinal Wellness
The use of probiotics for feline well-being has sparked debate among veterinarians, with conflicting opinions supported by scientific research. In my view, integrating probiotics into a cat's diet can offer significant benefits, such as rebalancing gut flora, reducing inflammation, and combating harmful bacteria.
Among the many options available, Fortiflora stands out as a trusted choice, widely recognized for its reliability.
For those who prefer natural remedies, Zumalka offers a promising probiotic supplement, particularly beneficial during episodes of diarrhea. Consider exploring their standout products to enhance your pet care regimen.
PROBIOPET is designed to help boost gut health
PROBIOPET by Zumalka is a powerful homeopathic supplement designed to support your dog's digestive health and strengthen its immune system.
Enriched with beneficial bacteria, this premium natural product works internally to restore balance in the digestive system, making it particularly effective during episodes of diarrhea.
For best results, administer PROBIOPET orally each day. This routine promotes healthy digestion and bolsters your dog's immune function, ensuring optimal well-being for your feline companion.
Consider Fecal Floating Testing in Cats
Microscopic analysis of your cat's feces is a valuable diagnostic tool veterinarians use to identify specific worm infections. In veterinary medicine, fecal flotation is a standard in-clinic procedure designed to detect intestinal parasites. This procedure can either be conducted in a clinic or sent out to a reference laboratory.
This test involves collecting a fresh stool sample (typically 3 to 5 grams) and mixing it with a sugar or salt solution, such as zinc sulfate or sodium nitrate. The mixture is carefully prepared, and a coverslip is placed over the container holding the fecal specimen.
The coverslip is then examined under a microscope to identify common intestinal parasites, including hookworms, roundworms, and protozoal parasites like Giardia and Coccidia.
The 3 Most Common Intestinal Parasites in Cats
Wondering about the most common types of intestinal worms in cats? Let’s take a closer look!
#1. Roundworm infection in cats
If your young cat is experiencing diarrhea, it is likely that they are suffering from a roundworm infection. Roundworms, classified as intestinal parasites, commonly impact cats and kittens.
Symptoms typically include diarrhea, vomiting (occasionally expelling worms), stunted growth, and a distended belly.
In severe cases of high worm burden, cats face an increased risk of gastrointestinal blockage, pneumonia, or even fatality. Fortunately, such outcomes are rare, as most cat parents proactively deworm their pets on a regular basis.
#2. Tapeworm infection in cats
Another common intestinal worm found in cats is tapeworms! Yes, these are those segmented worms that can be seen in the feces of adult cats and kittens.
Cats acquire tapeworms primarily through the ingestion of infected fleas. Fleas are common carriers of tapeworm larvae, and when cats groom themselves, they can inadvertently swallow an infected flea.
This process enables the tapeworm to travel through the cat's intestinal tract. Once there, it anchors its head to the intestinal wall and absorbs nutrients passively. Over time, it releases eggs into the intestines, which are expelled into the environment via feces, perpetuating the tapeworm's life cycle.
#3. Hookworm infection in cats
Hookworm infections are among the most common intestinal parasites in cats. These blood-sucking parasites can cause anemia and stunted growth, posing a serious risk to young kittens. Hookworm eggs are shed in feces, making them widespread in the environment, particularly in contaminated soil.
Cats can become infected by encountering hookworm larvae in the soil or by ingesting infected carriers like cockroaches or rodents. Consuming these insects or small animals significantly increases the risk of contracting a hookworm infection.
Given their prevalence and potential harm, it’s crucial to maintain good hygiene practices and regular deworming to protect your cat from these dangerous parasites. Regularly checking your cat's stool and litter box can help determine the presence of these unwanted parasites.
Can Humans Get Worms from Cats?
Yes, humans, especially immunocompromised individuals, can acquire worms from cats.
- Hookworm larvae can penetrate human skin, often through contact with contaminated soil, such as walking barefoot. This can lead to cutaneous larva migrans, a condition characterized by itchy, red tracks on the skin. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, dewormers, and steroids.
- Roundworms are another significant concern, as they can infect humans and cause serious symptoms, including fever, liver enlargement, abdominal pain, and even vision loss due to larval migration. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent these complications.
To reduce the risk of transmission, maintain good hygiene, avoid walking barefoot in areas frequented by animals, and ensure your pets are regularly dewormed. Preventing worms and other parasites is far better than dealing with their consequences.
Natural Dewormers for Cats: Miracle Solution or Myth?
Even with excellent hygiene and a spotless litter box, indoor cats are still likely to harbor intestinal parasites.
Many of these parasites, such as Giardia, Coccidia, and Toxoplasma, are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted to humans and pose potential health risks. While we’ve already discussed hookworms and roundworms, it’s essential to recognize the broader range of protozoan parasites that can also affect human health.
To protect both your cat and your household, regular deworming is crucial for all cats and kittens. Responsible pet care begins with proactive parasite prevention. Consulting a pet homeopathy expert can be invaluable if you're looking to explore natural treatment options further.
About the author
Hi Casey, Thank you for your question! We will reach out to your personal email with some information for you from our Homeopath.
Is organic diatomaceous earth alright to give to my cats. Or is there a different kind????
Leave a comment