How does my cat have worms??

I'm feeling really overwhelmed right now and could really use some advice. I've noticed my cat, Whiskers, has been acting a bit off lately—she's been more lethargic than usual, and her appetite has suddenly skyrocketed. I initially thought it was just a weird phase, but yesterday I saw something wriggling in her poop. It was absolutely horrifying! After doing some frantic Googling, I'm pretty sure she's got worms, but I'm just at a loss here. Whiskers is an indoor cat and I have no idea how she could've picked them up. The thought of her being uncomfortable or in pain just breaks my heart. I'm really stressing out about what steps to take next. Can someone please guide me on how she could have caught worms and what I need to do to make sure she gets better? Thanks so much for any help!

Answer

Hi there,



It’s completely understandable to be concerned about your cat having worms. These pesky parasites are quite common in cats and can be picked up in several ways. Cats may ingest worm eggs or larvae from the environment—like soil, feces, or contaminated surfaces. If your cat has recently caught or eaten rodents, birds, or even certain insects, these could also be sources of worm infestation.



Signs your cat might have worms include a bloated appearance, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and noticing worms or rice-like segments around their rear end. At home, ensure your cat’s litter box is kept clean to reduce the risk of re-infestation, and consider keeping your cat indoors to minimize exposure to these parasites.



It's essential to monitor for symptoms like persistent vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or weight loss, as these can indicate a more serious issue requiring prompt attention.



To get personalized advice and determine the best course of action for your feline friend, book a video consult with a vet on Dial A Vet. They'll guide you on how to safely and effectively treat the worms and prevent future infections.



Take care of yourself and your cat!

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