How to Tell If Your Cat Has Tapeworms and How to Treat Them

Tapeworms are intestinal parasites that latch onto your cat’s intestines, feeding off their nutrients. The most common type affecting cats is Dipylidium caninum, often transmitted through fleas. Tapeworms can appear year-round, meaning your cat could get them at any time.

So, how can you tell if your cat has a tapeworm? Let’s dive into the signs you should look for and what steps you can take to protect your cat.

How to Spot Tapeworm Segments in Your Cat’s Poop

The first sign that your cat might have a tapeworm is finding segments of the worm in their stool or around their bottom. These segments look like small grains of rice and are actually the tapeworm’s way of reproducing. As the tapeworm grows, it sheds these rice-like proglottids, which contain tapeworm larvae.

These little segments can move on their own, and you’ll typically see them either in your cat’s poop or around their anus. They might even stick to the fur around their backside. Don’t try to remove them yourself—this can be dangerous if the tapeworm is still wrapped around your cat’s intestines. It’s best to call your vet to confirm the diagnosis and figure out the next steps for treatment.

Frequent Vomiting in Cats: Could Tapeworms Be the Cause?

Every cat throws up now and then, it’s part of their nature. But if your cat is vomiting more than usual, particularly several times a week, this could be a sign of tapeworms. Some cats with tapeworms even vomit live worm segments, which is incredibly unsettling.

If your cat’s vomiting is accompanied by diarrhea, or if they can’t keep food or water down, you could be dealing with a serious issue. Frequent vomiting can lead to dehydration, which can make your cat feel worse and prevent them from getting the nutrients they need. Don’t wait—call your vet for advice and treatment options.

Weight Loss in Cats From Tapeworms

This one’s a little less gross but just as concerning. Weight loss in a cat that is still eating normally is a big red flag for parasites like tapeworms. Tapeworms feed off the nutrients your cat consumes, which means your cat could be eating plenty of food but not absorbing the essential nutrients needed to maintain a healthy weight.

If you notice your cat is losing weight but still eating regularly, this could be due to tapeworms or another underlying condition. Keep an eye on their eating habits and weight, and if it doesn’t improve, schedule a visit with your vet.

What Should You Do if You Think Your Cat Has Tapeworms?

If you suspect your cat has tapeworms, the first thing you should do is contact your veterinarian. While tapeworms are fairly easy to spot based on symptoms, a fecal test can sometimes help confirm the diagnosis. However, keep in mind that fecal panels may not always detect tapeworms unless the segments are present in the sample.

Your vet will likely prescribe a deworming medication, which works by dissolving the tapeworms in your cat’s intestines. Don’t expect to see a large worm come out in your cat’s poop. The medication breaks the worm down and your cat will pass the dissolved parts. Most deworming treatments are available by prescription only, and your vet may need to try different medications if the first one doesn’t work.

Who Gave My Cat Tapeworms?

It’s time to play detective! While tapeworms aren’t contagious in the traditional sense, they can be transmitted through infected fleas. Fleas are the most common source of tapeworm transmission. When your cat swallows a flea (during grooming or playing), the flea may contain tapeworm larvae that can develop into adult tapeworms inside your cat’s intestines.

Even indoor cats are vulnerable to flea infestations, so it’s crucial to keep up with monthly flea prevention. If your cat spends time outside, the risk is even higher. Regular flea control is your first line of defense against tapeworms and other parasites.

How to Prevent Tapeworms in Cats?

The good news is that tapeworms are preventable. Here’s what you can do to keep your cat safe:

• Flea prevention is key: Regular flea treatments are essential for all cats, even those that don’t go outside. Fleas are the primary source of tapeworms, so monthly flea preventives (in the form of pills, topical treatments, or collars) are a must.
• Keep your cat’s environment clean: Vacuum and clean your cat’s bedding regularly to prevent flea infestations.
• Routine vet check-ups: Regular vet visits are crucial to spot any issues early. Your vet can give you a tailored plan to keep your cat healthy and parasite-free.

Protecting your cat from tapeworms is an ongoing effort, but with proper flea control and vet visits, you can keep your furry friend safe from these nasty parasites.