Effective ways to Treat Tapeworms in Cats Cats can suffer from a number of intestinal parasitic problems, one of which is known as tapeworm infection. Though this type of disease can cause immense discomforts, the good news is, it is relatively uncommon in cats. Despite the chances of your cat getting infected with tapeworms is low, it is important for cat parents to stay alert and know about this distressing disease. Before we step onto how one can deal with tapeworms in cats, it is imperative to know what the disease is all about and what symptoms it possesses.
Defining Tapeworms in Cats Tapeworms are a type of intestinal parasite known as cestodes. These long, flat, white worms with hook-like mouths live and breed inside the cat’s body for long periods of time. They feed on the rich nutrients that pass through and make your furry pal weak and lethargic. Furthermore, these 20-inch long ribbon-like creatures can disrupt the entire digestive system and can very fatal if not taken care of.
Symptoms of Tapeworms in Cats If your cat exhibits any of the below-mentioned symptoms, rush to a vet to see whether or not your feline has tapeworms or not. • • • • • • • • • • •
Anaemia Depression Diarrhea Excessive biting due to itchiness Faded fur coat Increase in Appetite Irritability Persistent licking of fur Reduction in Weight Weakness Worms in Vomit or in Stool
Tapeworm Life Cycle in Cats The tapeworm cycle commences with the tapeworm eggs being ingested by flea larvae or any other medium. These immature eggs reside inside the body of the feline and over time, develop into adult worms. The adult worms then begin to spread to all four corners, causing damage and uneasiness to the cat. If not taken care of, these adult worms lay eggs and over a brief period of time the process gets repeated. The diagram below will vividly explain the tapeworm cycle in felines.
Note: For reference only. Ask designers to make a new one with the below mentioned life cycle points. • • • •
Cats ingest larval fleas containing worm cysts. Immature eggs develop into adult tapeworms. Adult tapeworms spread throughout the body causing problems. Adult tapeworms then hatch eggs which re-infest the body with tapeworms.
Treating Tapeworms in Cats Though tapeworm infection can be fatal, the good news is, it is easily curable provided you commence the treatment quickly. If you suspect tapeworms in your feline, the first thing you should do is contact your vet. The vet will call you in and examine your furry friend and after diagnosis can he only begin the tapeworm treatment. The effective cat treatment methods can include dewormer capsules, tablets, wormer paste, etc. Furthermore, in some rare and extreme cases, your vet may opt for surgeries. Tapeworms might not be a common issue among cats but as cat parents you must do everything it takes to protect your feline from the innumerable diseases that can possibly affect your companion. Keep your cat well protected and stay safe.
Reference:https://budgetpetworld.wordpress.com/2019/04/03/dealing-with-tapeworms-in-cats/