{"id":5287,"date":"2025-02-12T18:32:00","date_gmt":"2025-02-12T18:32:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/maven.pet\/all-about-pets\/?p=5287"},"modified":"2026-02-07T15:33:29","modified_gmt":"2026-02-07T15:33:29","slug":"signs-your-cat-has-worms","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/maven.pet\/all-about-pets\/pet-health\/cat-conditions\/signs-your-cat-has-worms\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Clear Signs Your Cat Has Worms \u2014 And What to Do Next"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Did you know that some adult female worms can lay up to 200,000 eggs daily and grow up to 100 cm in size inside your cat? It can be really disheartening to discover your furball is also affected by them, but early detection is the key. Although worms are common in cats and kittens, it\u2019s vital to recognize early warning signs and act fast to prevent serious health issues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

These internal parasites live inside your cat and deprive it of the nutrients it needs to survive, which can lead to weight loss, diarrhea, a dull coat, or severe complications, such as anemia, malnutrition, and organ damage. If you wonder, \u201cHow do I know if my cat has worms?\u201d the answer lies in closely monitoring your pet\u2019s health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But you\u2019re not alone, as Maven Pet, a pet health tracking tool, is here to help you detect the early signs of illness and ensure long-term pet wellness<\/a>. With it, you can monitor weight, appetite, and digestion changes before they become problematic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Do I Know My Cat Has Worms \u2013 5 Symptoms <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\u201cHow to tell if my cat has worms?\u201d This question probably crosses the mind of every cat owner at some point in their lifetime. Below are the common signs all pet parents need to be aware of, as they can help them determine what type of worm they are dealing with. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visible worms in stool and vomit<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the most apparent indications of a worm infestation is to see worms in your cat\u2019s stool or vomit. Luckily, different types of worms have distinct appearances, so it is easy to identify them visually. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For instance, tapeworm segments often look like small, white grains of rice in your cat\u2019s feces or around their anus. These fragments may also be found on bedding or near the litter box. On the other hand, roundworms resemble long, spaghetti-like strands. They can be seen in feces (more commonly), and sometimes in vomit (if the amount is really high). This type mostly plagues kittens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/span>
\n

\u201cEvery time Umi is hospitalized, it\u2019s for like four days and it costs over $5,000\u2026 Maven has helped me not only save money<\/strong> but also save his life<\/strong><\/em>\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n

\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jessica Ortiz
Umi<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n
Track your cat’s health!<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Weight loss despite normal eating habits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If your cat eats well but still loses weight, it could also be because of worms. As mentioned above, worms live off the essential nutrients from your cat\u2019s food, which your feline needs to maintain a healthy body. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This can lead to noticeable weight loss even if there are no changes in your cat\u2019s appetite. And sometimes, the opposite can occur \u2014 your cat can become hungrier and ask for more food to compensate for the lost energy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nevertheless, the lack of nutrients can weaken your furball’s immune system and overall well-being over time, as well as make it lethargic and noticeably less active. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frequent scooting or licking the rear<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A cat that constantly licks or scoots its rear along the floor may have an anal gland issue or suffer from worm-related irritation. This behavior is widespread with tapeworm infections since the worm segments itch and cause discomfort around the anus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This way, cats may attempt to relieve the irritating sensation. However, dragging their bottom across surfaces can also lead to skin irritation or infections. If you notice frequent scooting or excessive licking, check for tapeworm segments or consult a vet as soon as possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bloating or a potbellied appearance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Another sign of a worm infection is a swollen, bloated belly. Regrettably, kittens usually experience this symptom. Roundworms are a frequent culprit in young cats and can cause an enlarged abdomen. The bloating occurs as the worms accumulate in the intestines, which can lead to discomfort and digestive issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Diarrhea, vomiting, or changes in stool<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Digestive disturbances are also a common indication of worm presence. Cats with worms may experience frequent diarrhea (sometimes containing blood) because the parasites damage the intestinal lining. This can lead to blood loss, lethargy, and even increased blood pressure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If a cat has a heavy roundworm infection, it may also vomit. Additionally, the stool may appear unusually soft, discolored, or contain visible worm fragments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What to Do If My Cat Has Worms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you suspect your cat has worms, these are the steps you can take: <\/p>\n\n\n\n