Worms in kittens.

Dr. Marie replied:

Hi there Kristen! I am just on the road on my way home, so I have pulled over and am responding on my blackberry.

When I get home in about 30 mins I can type u a full response. I can definitely help!

Can you tell me what the worms look like? More like spagetti, rice, or sesame seeds?

Are the cats bright and eating well?

Thanks...I'll be in touch soon.

Dr. Marie


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Dr. Marie replied:

OK, I am home now and better able to answer your question!

Although it is not pleasant to know that your kitties have worms it is not an urgent situation and as long as we treat them within the next week or so it should be ok. (It would be a different story if they were not eating, lethargic or sick).

The spaghetti like worms are likely roundworms which are very common in kittens. The rice worms are likely tapeworms which are not as common. Tapeworms have to enter the cat via some type of intermediate host which is usually either a mouse that the cat has eaten or fleas.

It's not too long to wait until Tuesday. However, you may be able to deworm them without visiting the vet. If you live in the US, you can get roundworm and tapeworm meds over the counter at the pet store. Just follow the directions on the label and repeat in 10-14 days. If you are in Canada, only roundworm meds are over the counter so you would need to see your vet for tapeworm meds.

If your vet recently vaccinated the cats they may be able to dispense a roundworm/tapeworm dewormer without actually seeing the cats. However, the pet store products are usually pretty decent.

Once they get the dewormer you should notice them passing worms. The worms should be dead already. The meds usually work within 24 hours.

Can they be passed to you? The tapeworms can only be passed to you if you ingest a flea or mouse that has them - so that is unlikely. In theory roundworms can be passed to you if you somehow ingest stool that has been sitting for a few days. Again, this is unlikely. Wash your hands after changing the litter and change the litter often and you'll be ok.

You shouldn't need to confine your cats at all.

You may also want to look into a good flea treatment for them (if not already done) as fleas are most likely the source of the tapeworms. Most over the counter flea products are NOT reliable and can be toxic. Your vet should be able to dispense Advantage which is very safe and effective.

I hope this helps. Hope they do ok!

Dr. Marie.

Dr. Marie replied:

You're very welcome!
Dr. Marie.