Veterinarian Brittany Kleszynski offers advice on what to do when a cat starts to vomit worms, published on July 22, 2024. Read this article to learn more. Share via Facebook, Twitter, email, or print.
In the world of feline health, the sight of worms in a cat's vomit can be alarming. But fear not, for this condition is treatable, and with proper veterinary care, most cats feel better relatively quickly.
Common causes of such occurrences are intestinal parasite infections, particularly by roundworms and, less frequently, tapeworms. Roundworms, long, white, spaghetti-like worms living in the intestines, are the most frequent cause. Cats acquire these by ingesting eggs from contaminated environments, eating infected prey, or through their mother’s milk (in kittens). Symptoms of roundworm infections in cats include vomiting (sometimes with visible worms), diarrhea, bloated belly, weight loss, lethargy, and poor coat condition.
Tapeworms can also cause vomiting in cats, though more commonly are noticed as white, rice-like segments near the anus or in feces. Heavy tapeworm infestations can lead to vomiting and weight loss.
Treatments
Deworming medications prescribed by a veterinarian are the standard treatment; these drugs specifically target roundworms, tapeworms, and other common parasites. Kittens are typically dewormed every 2 weeks until 6-8 weeks old; adult cats may need deworming based on fecal exam results or signs of infestation. Year-round preventive measures, including monthly parasite control products (which might also cover fleas and heartworms), are recommended to prevent reinfection and reduce parasite resistance.
If worms are seen in vomit or feces, bringing a sample to the vet can help identify the type of worm and guide appropriate treatment. Multiple worm types can infect simultaneously, so comprehensive veterinary diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
As a pet parent, if you see worms in your cat's vomit, it is important to seek guidance from a veterinarian. Clean up any vomit from a cat with intestinal worms quickly and safely to prevent potential contamination. After treatment for intestinal worms, it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian about choosing a flea, tick, and heartworm preventative medication, such as Bravecto PLUS, to prevent recurrence.
In summary, common worm types causing vomit with worms are roundworms (most common) and tapeworms. Causes include ingestion of eggs, larvae, infected prey, or mother’s milk in kittens. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, bloated belly, weight loss, lethargy. Treatment involves veterinary-prescribed dewormers and regular preventive parasite control. This approach ensures effective removal of worms and prevention of recurrence.
- The 'health-and-wellness' of a cat is significantly impacted by intestinal parasite infections like roundworms and tapeworms, which are common causes of worms appearing in a cat's vomit.
- 'Science' plays a crucial role in addressing such issues, with deworming medications, prescribed by veterinarians, being the standard treatment for these worm infections.
- By adopting a 'lifestyle' that includes year-round preventive measures and the use of monthly parasite control products, pet parents can help prevent reinfection and reduce parasite resistance in their cats.
