Common Cat Parasites: Prevention and Treatment

Protecting Your Cat from Parasites

Parasites can cause serious health problems for your cat. Here’s how to prevent and treat them:

External Parasites:

• Fleas:
  • Symptoms: Scratching, hair loss, flea dirt
  • Prevention: Monthly topical or oral treatments
  • Treatment: Flea comb, medicated baths, environmental treatment
• Ticks:
  • Symptoms: Visible ticks, skin irritation
  • Prevention: Tick collars, topical treatments
  • Treatment: Safe tick removal, tick prevention products

Internal Parasites:

• Roundworms:
  • Symptoms: Pot-bellied appearance, vomiting, diarrhea
  • Prevention: Regular deworming, clean environment
  • Treatment: Prescription deworming medication
• Tapeworms:
  • Symptoms: Rice-like segments in stool, scooting
  • Prevention: Flea control (fleas carry tapeworm larvae)
  • Treatment: Prescription medication
• Heartworms:
  • Symptoms: Coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy
  • Prevention: Monthly heartworm prevention
  • Treatment: Complex, expensive treatment required

Prevention Tips:

• Keep your cat indoors to reduce exposure
• Use monthly parasite prevention products
• Regular veterinary check-ups
• Keep the environment clean
• Wash bedding regularly

Warning Signs:

Contact your vet if you notice:

• Excessive scratching or grooming
• Visible parasites
• Changes in appetite or energy
• Unusual stool appearance
• Skin irritation or hair loss