Roundworms can be picked up when cats catch and eat infected rodents, insects or birds. Kittens can become infected with roundworm from their mother's milk, which is why young kittens often have worms even when they've never been outside.
What causes roundworms in kittens?
Both kittens and adult cats may become infected by swallowing eggs that contain infective roundworm larvae. These eggs may come from the feces of infected cats or from the tissues of paratenic hosts (an accidental host). In a paratenic host, the roundworm eggs do not mature into adults, but are just transported.
How do you get rid of roundworms in kittens?
There are several medications for treating roundworm in cats, including fenbendazole, emodepside, milbemycin, piperazine, moxidectin, selamectin, and pyrantel. Your veterinarian will select the remedy best suited for your cat.
Why do indoor cats get roundworms?
Cats can get roundworms by eating wild animals as well as from feces or a contaminated environment. Most cats are infected with roundworms at some point in their life. They often show no symptoms. If your cat suffers weight loss, dull hair, and a potbellied appearance, it may have a major roundworm infection.
How do pets get roundworms in the first place?
Dogs and cats infected with these worms contaminate an area by passing worm eggs or larvae in their feces (poop). A dog or cat can be infected when they swallow dirt with dog or cat feces that has worm eggs or larvae.
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