While healthy adult cats can typically survive a roundworm infestation, large numbers of the parasites can cause serious, even life-threatening symptoms and are a common cause of illness. In many cases, they are a cause of death, particularly for kittens and cats with already existing health problems.
How serious is roundworm in kittens?
Roundworms are not particularly harmful to adult cats, but large numbers may cause life-threatening problems in kittens and debilitated older cats. In kittens, common clinical signs include a pot-bellied appearance, abdominal discomfort, depressed appetite, dull hair coat, vomiting and diarrhea, or poor growth.
How long does it take to get rid of roundworms in kittens?
The treatment of choice for protozoal organisms is an oral drug called fenbendazole, also known as panacur, for 7 days. Round worms and hook worms are both treated by a couple of doses of a different liquid, oral dewormer called pyrantel pamoate.
Can kittens survive with worms?
Because worms are parasites that feed on your cat's nutrients and, in some cases their blood, cats can develop a host of health problems, such as anaemia. In severe cases of worm infestations, they can block the intestines, causing very serious health issues. In rare cases, worms can be fatal, especially for kittens.
Are roundworms in kittens an emergency?
Left untreated, severe roundworm infestations can have serious, life-threatening health consequences for kittens. Plus, the worms can affect humans.
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