There are several types of internal parasites that cause problems in cats. These include roundworms, such as Toxocara cati, Toxascaris leonina; heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis); tapeworms, such as Dipylidium caninum, Taenia species, and Echinococcus species; and hookworms, such as Ancylostoma species.
What is the most common parasite in cats?
Roundworms (Toxascaris leonina and Toxocara cati) are the most common intestinal parasite of cats, with an estimated prevalence of 25% to 75%, and often higher in kittens. The adult roundworms are 3 to 5 inches long, cream-colored, and live in the cat's intestine.
What are the symptoms of parasites in cats?
Symptoms of Parasitic Infection in CatsWeight loss despite normal or increased food intake.Anorexia.Poor hair coat.Alopecia (hair loss)Scratching of the ears.Dirty ears.Red, irritated skin.Itchy, scratchy skin.
Can humans get parasites from cats?
Because T. gondii infectious organisms are excreted only in cat feces, wild and domestic cats are the parasite's ultimate host. Although you can't "catch" toxoplasmosis from an infected child or adult, you can become infected if you: Come into contact with cat feces that contain the parasite.
What do parasites look like in cats?
Roundworms look like spaghetti and can be found in vomit and/or poop. Tapeworms are long, flat, and segmented. Whole tapeworms can be found in poop or sticking out of the rectum. Most commonly, the tapeworm segments break apart and look like pieces of rice stuck on your cat's rear end.
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