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Question:

Weird Hollow casings near cat and litterbox

I'm really hoping someone can help me figure this out because it's starting to freak me out a bit. I have this super sweet rescue cat named Bella, who I've had for about a year now. She's been doing great, but lately I've been noticing these strange, hollow, shell-like casings near her litterbox and sometimes around the corners of the room. They're kind of beige and fragile, almost like dried-out cicada shells, but I haven't noticed any bugs in the house. Bella seems fine and isn't acting differently, but I'm worried these casings could mean there's something going on that I'm not seeing. Has anyone else encountered this sort of thing before? I’m really concerned about her health. Any advice or ideas on what these could be would be super appreciated! Thanks in advance.

Answer:

Hello! Thanks for reaching out about the strange hollow casings you've found near your cat's litterbox. Finding something unusual in or around your cat's space can be concerning, but let's explore what this could be.



These hollow casings could actually be the shed skins of fleas or other insects. Fleas go through several stages in their life cycle, and shedding their old skin is part of this process. It could also be remnants of tapeworm segments. If your cat has had fleas, they may have ingested some while grooming, which can lead to tapeworms.



At home, start by thoroughly cleaning the litterbox and the surrounding area. Use a vacuum to remove any debris, as this can help disrupt the life cycle of any fleas. Consider closely inspecting your cat for flea dirt or even live fleas, especially around the neck and tail.



Keep an eye out for signs of discomfort in your kitty, like excessive scratching or grooming, weight loss, or visible worms in their stool. If you notice any of these, it's time for veterinary attention.



To ensure you're addressing this effectively, I'd recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets here at Dial A Vet. We can help identify the issue and guide you toward the best treatment plan.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 20, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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