Cats are very popular pets, but they can carry internal parasites that threaten their health and that of their owners. Regular deworming is essential to prevent these infections and avoid harmful consequences for our beloved felines. In this article, we will discuss the various risks associated with the absence of deworming in cats as well as the best prevention and treatment methods.
Internal parasites in cats: what are the health risks?
Several types of internal parasites can infest cats, such as intestinal worms, protozoa, and cestodes. These parasites can cause various health problems in both cats and their owners, as some of them are transmissible to humans (zoonosis).
Intestinal worms
Intestinal worms are the most commonly encountered parasites in cats. They are divided into two main groups: roundworms and hookworms. Roundworms are large round worms living in the small intestine, while hookworms are small flat worms living in the small intestine and colon. These parasites can cause a range of symptoms in infested cats, including:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating and abdominal pain
- Anemia (in the case of hookworms)
- Growth retardation in kittens
A massive infestation by intestinal worms can even lead to death.

Protozoa
Protozoa, such as Giardia and Coccidia, are unicellular parasites responsible for intestinal infections in cats. Symptoms usually include watery or bloody diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Prompt treatment is necessary to prevent dehydration and avoid potential complications.
Cestodes
Cestodes, also known as flatworms, are flat worms living in the small intestine of cats. They can cause various symptoms such as:
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Itching around the anus
- Visible worm segments in the feces or around the anus
In some cases, a cestode infection can show no symptoms and go unnoticed for a long time.
If you want to learn more about how to take care of your cat and protect it from internal parasites, visit the website les-animaux.fr. There, you will find many practical tips to keep your cat healthy and avoid risks for yourself and your family.
Deworming: an essential method to protect cats’ health
To prevent parasitic infections in cats, regular deworming is essential. This involves administering appropriate antiparasitic treatment to eliminate internal parasites and prevent their multiplication.
Recommendations for deworming
The frequency of deworming depends on the cat’s age and lifestyle.
Here are the general recommendations for deworming cats:
- Kittens: every 15 days until 2 months of age, then once a month until 6 months of age
- Adult cats: at least twice a year, or more often if the cat goes outside and hunts
- Pregnant queens: before mating, then two weeks before giving birth, and finally every two weeks during lactation
It is important to consult a veterinarian for personalized advice based on each cat’s situation.
Choosing an antiparasitic
Several types of antiparasitics are available on the market, in the form of tablets, oral paste, or liquid to add to food. The choice of antiparasitic should be tailored to the type of parasites to be treated, as well as the age and weight of the cat. It is advisable to seek advice from a veterinarian who can prescribe the most suitable treatment.
Action to protect cats’ health and prevent parasitic infections
In summary, regular deworming is essential to protect cats’ health and avoid risks associated with internal parasites. It is important to follow deworming recommendations and consult a veterinarian for personalized advice. Finally, remember that some parasites can also be transmitted to humans; good hygiene and preventive measures are therefore crucial to maintain the health of everyone.