Tapeworms, one of the most common intestinal parasites found in cats, are fairly easy for your cat to pick up, and both indoor and outdoor cats are at risk. Learn how to spot the warning signs of tapeworms and find out how to help protect your cat.
Should I be worried if my cat has tapeworms?
Tapeworms can live up to two years if untreated, but often do not cause great harm to their host. These worms can grow up to 20 inches long, however, they are usually smaller. Tapeworm infestations are fairly common in cats, and veterinary treatment is very effective at eradicating them.
Why did my cat get tapeworms?
The most common way is through fleas. Tiny flea larvae can be infected with tapeworms. If your cat digests an infected flea while grooming herself, that flea can transmit a tiny tapeworm into your cat and grow into a full-sized adult worm. Cats can also get tapeworms by eating small animals like squirrels and mice.
Are tapeworms rare in cats?
Next, the cat chews or licks his/her skin as a flea bites and the flea is then swallowed. As the flea is digested within the cat's intestine, the tapeworm hatches and anchors itself to the intestinal lining. Lice are also reported as intermediate hosts for tapeworms, but they are relatively uncommon parasites of cats.
Will tapeworms go away on their own cats?
There are no home remedies for tapeworms in cats. Prevention, however, is the best course of action. Whether your cat has had tapeworms or you want to avoid your cat getting them, the best way to prevent tapeworms in cats is by giving your cat flea and tick medicine.
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