Does your cat have worms? Discover 5 natural deworming remedies to get rid of them!

Have you ever found worms in your cat's litter box?

Don't feel alone if they gross you out! I remember finding roundworms in the feces of a dog I fostered. My heart stopped, even though, as an animal health technician, I see them often.

How do I know if my cat has worms, and more importantly, how do I get rid of them effectively?

Whether you suspect an infestation or are looking for gentle alternatives, discover veterinary treatments and our 5 science-backed natural remedies.

Click to learn more: 👉 Support your cat when suffering from WORMS with our Natural Product 🐱

Even if you haven't made this disgusting discovery, it doesn't mean your feline friend has never been inhabited by these tiny intestinal parasites. A cat can have worms even if they are not visible in its feces.

Furthermore, unfortunately for us, worm infestations are very common in cats (as well as in dogs). It is reported that 45% of cats have had worms at some point in their lives.

In addition to making your cat susceptible to serious health problems, these parasites are also highly contagious to other animals, and unfortunately, to us humans as well.

Contrary to what many people mistakenly believe, using conventional medications is not your only option to get rid of these unwanted visitors.

There are actually natural treatments that you can use to eliminate worms in cats and treat your faithful companion. In this article, I will explain what these home remedies are.

Read now about the reasons why your cat might get worms.

How does my cat get worms?

A cat becomes susceptible to worm infestation as soon as it comes into contact with objects and organic matter already contaminated with the eggs of these parasites. In addition to infected animal feces, this can include collars, toys, combs, scratching posts, as well as food and water bowls.

In fact, most worms are transmitted by ingesting eggs present in infected feces. You might say your cat doesn't eat feces, and you'd be right. But since your cat grooms itself constantly, it only needs to walk on infected ground to ingest these eggs a little later.

Once a cat grooms itself after being exposed to these eggs, which usually involves meticulously licking one body part after another, these parasites end up in its gastrointestinal tract where they hatch and develop.

Furthermore, transmission is also very likely when a cat eats an infected organism such as an insect, rodent, or bird it encountered in its environment.

Finally, there are even unusual cases where an infected mother transmits the infection to her kittens through her milk.

Now, let's discuss the symptoms that indicate a cat may have contracted worms.

What are the symptoms of a worm infestation in a cat?

Cats with worms typically have a rough coat, will suffer from diarrhea, will have little or no appetite, and may even have vomiting. In short, during significant parasitosis, they will not be doing very well.

How do I know if my cat has worms?

Here is a more complete list of signs a cat with worms might show in case of infestation:

• Mild to severe diarrhea
• Blood in stools
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Poor coat appearance
• Weight loss
• Elimination of worms in stools
• Stools covered with mucus
• Weakness
• Rice grain appearance around the anus
• Evidence of worms emerging from the anus
• Anemia
• Swollen abdomen
• Pale gums
• More persistent grooming of the anal area and surrounding areas
• Sudden change in bowel movements

These signs are generally present during a significant parasitosis. Most animals show few or no symptoms during a minor to moderate infestation.

Continue reading to learn how to protect your cat from these parasites.

Do you know how to get rid of your cat's worms?

Depending on the worm burden your cat is afflicted with, a veterinarian can make a diagnosis and recommend the best dewormer, tailored to its needs.

Another strategy available to you is natural treatment. While it may seem surprising, there are actually several home remedies for worms in cats that you can use to get rid of these unwanted visitors.

To make things even more interesting, these natural home treatments for cat worms are also supported by concrete scientific evidence.

You can see that different strategies are available to you to kill your cat's worms.

We will therefore start by presenting the possible treatments at the vet and then the natural home treatments. I will guide you through them and how to use them correctly.

Cat worm treatments at the veterinarian

Following the analysis of your feline's stool, your veterinarian can determine which type of worms are multiplying in your cat's digestive system and offer you the best treatment option to cure it.

Dewormers prescribed by the veterinarian

They are given either in tablet or liquid form and are very effective and safe.

But you might be asking yourself: "why does my cat have worms despite the dewormer?"

It is normal to see worms in your cat's stool shortly after administering the product, as the body purges the worms and eliminates them in the stool.

However, the larvae of some types of worms can encyst in body tissues, making it impossible to get rid of them immediately. They can remain dormant for some time and multiply later.

This is why worm treatment generally requires several doses, to avoid recurrence.

You might be wondering: "How long does it take to eliminate cat worms after deworming?"

It depends. The duration varies because there are several factors to consider. In addition to the age and overall health of the infected cat, the type of parasitic worm involved and the timing of appropriate remedy administration must also be taken into account.

Over-the-counter antiparasitic treatments

Most over-the-counter anti-worm products for cats are just as effective in treating your companion, but for the majority, they combat a more limited spectrum of intestinal worms.

What is the price to deworm a cat?

The price for deworming a cat varies mainly depending on the type of treatment chosen, the brand of the product, and your pet's weight. In general, antiparasitic tablets or spot-ons sold in pharmacies or at the vet cost between €5 and €25 per dose.

However, for comprehensive care during an immune system dip, it is sometimes necessary to add the cost of a microscopic stool analysis (coproscopy) at the veterinarian, which typically costs between €30 and €60, in order to precisely target the type of parasite to eliminate.

Can I get rid of my cat's worms at home?

Here are the 5 best natural treatments to use as home dewormers to get rid of worms in cats: apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, diatomaceous earth, pumpkin seeds, and turmeric.

1) Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has antioxidant properties that help fight parasites and act as a natural dewormer.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), apple cider vinegar contains antioxidants that not only strengthen resilience against diseases, but researchers reveal that its antioxidant properties can also help get rid of gastrointestinal worms and parasites like coccidia.

To use apple cider vinegar as a natural treatment for worms in cats, mix half a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with your four-legged friend's water.

If your cat rejects the mixture of water and apple cider vinegar, you can experiment with other liquid bases like broth and juice until you find a combination your pet likes.

Also, make sure not to serve apple cider vinegar directly to your cat as it is too acidic for its stomach. Remember to choose organic options when buying apple cider vinegar.

However, apple cider vinegar can be harmful, for example to the kidneys, if given in too large quantities. We advise you to always check with your veterinarian if a natural product is safe for your pet.

2) Coconut oil

Coconut oil has antiparasitic attributes.

Another study published in the NCBI reports that natural chemicals found in coconut oil are able to inhibit parasitic activity, as in cases of malaria (Plasmodium falciparum), leishmaniasis (Leishmania donovani), and Chagas disease (Trypanosoma cruzi).

This beneficial effect is mainly attributed to the presence of various fatty acids, sterols, flavones, and polyphenols, among others.

To use coconut oil as a natural treatment to help your cat during a worm infestation, thoroughly incorporate ¼ teaspoon of it into your pet's meals.

• Dosage tip: Although you can do this up to twice a day, never give your cat more than ½ teaspoon of coconut oil per day as it can lead to flatulence and even indigestion. Also, always choose food-grade coconut oil.

3) Diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earth can help strengthen the body's resistance against parasites.

The Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture at Iowa State University highlights that diatomaceous earth can be used as "part of a parasite control program" for small animals.

Researchers add that although tests do not show diatomaceous earth to be a strong parasite control agent on its own, it has been observed to help "control gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in sheep" when used in conjunction with other natural antiparasitic methods.

To use diatomaceous earth as a natural home dewormer to help your pet during a cat worm infestation, add ½ teaspoon of it to your pet's wet food once a day. Repeat the process for two (2) weeks until the infection symptoms disappear.

Its external use can also have effects against fleas, which are carriers of intestinal worms.

• Precautions for use: Its use is safe, but it is always advisable to inquire about the appropriate quantities and frequency for your pet. Handle it carefully without raising dust and make sure to use only food-grade diatomaceous earth.

4) Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds contain natural chemicals that help to get rid of parasitic nematodes.

Another study highlighted in the NCBI reveals that pumpkin seed extracts were rich in cucurbitin, amino acids, fatty acids, berberine, as well as palmatine, which have shown positive effects in eliminating parasitic nematodes.

Researchers even concluded that pumpkin seeds could be considered an inexpensive alternative option for controlling gastrointestinal nematode infections.

To use pumpkin seeds as a natural treatment to support your pet in cases of cat worms, thoroughly wash the seeds and roast them at 350°F for forty-five (45) minutes to an hour.

Allow the pumpkin seeds to cool completely, then finely grind them using a blender or a mortar and pestle.

You can then sprinkle a pinch of this pumpkin seed powder on your cat's food. Furthermore, you can continue to do so until the symptoms of the infection disappear.

5) Turmeric

Turmeric helps get rid of water parasites.

According to the NCBI, turmeric is loaded with curcumin, which helps repel the activity and development of Schistosoma mansoni, a type of water blood fluke that affects the liver.

In addition to helping reduce the area of infection and subsequent parasitic damage, laboratory tests also reveal that curcumin inhibited the development and activity of S. mansoni, significantly reducing their numbers.

How to naturally deworm a cat using turmeric? Cut a thumb-sized piece and soak it in a cup of hot water for at least ten (10) minutes. Once the mixture has cooled completely, you can use it as a water substitute for your cat.

Alternatively, you can also peel and grate a piece of turmeric and add it to your pet's food. Just be sure to mix it thoroughly into their food, as turmeric can have a spicy taste when eaten directly.

Did you know about these natural dewormers for your cat? Dewormers are essential for treating a parasitic cat. Nature is surprising, and many simple grandmother's remedies can be found there.

Is garlic a good natural dewormer against cat worms?

It is reported by several that garlic has antiparasitic properties and could therefore be used as a natural dewormer. But beware, even in small quantities, it can be harmful to cats. To be avoided.

Homeopathic product for cats

HomeoAnimo™ suggests an all-natural product to support your cat's health in its fight against worms.

This is the product P.V. Animo (Parasites and Worms) which is known to balance digestive health.

Like most of our products, it will also strengthen their immune system, thereby allowing your cat to help themselves.

The product P.V. Animo (Parasites and Worms) targets parasites and worms found in your cat's gastrointestinal tract. This product is designed to treat roundworms, pinworms, tropical parasites, intestinal worm disorders, and even conditions resulting from a worm infestation.

P.V. Animo (Parasites and Worms) is also formulated to alleviate progressive weight loss, malnutrition, and even nervous disorders that are often caused by the presence of these undesirable visitors in the digestive tract, using premium natural ingredients and a gentle holistic approach.

This natural product can only be administered if worms or parasites are present. It should not be used for prevention.

Watch our videos

Can I prevent my cat from getting worms?

Other than keeping your feline indoors, the best way to prevent a worm infestation is to use dewormers.

Your veterinarian will likely suggest antiparasitic treatments either annually, or more frequently, depending on your pet's lifestyle, as a preventive measure.

This protocol is also very important for treating young cats, as they often have worms.

Flea control is also an effective and important strategy.

Here is a list of other simple methods to use to prevent your cat from getting worms:

• Always make sure to clean your cat's litter box daily. It is also crucial to have an appropriate space for your cat's feces. The use of airtight bins is highly recommended.
• To avoid cat worms, regularly disinfect the inside of your home. Make sure to keep your environment as clean as possible. In case of a cat worm infestation in the house, clean floors and work surfaces with a disinfectant. Steam cleaning is an effective way to kill worm eggs on carpets and furniture.
• Also keep the outside of your home clean. This includes your patio, yard, and other places where your cat might roam and relax. Be sure to immediately remove dead rodents, birds, and insects that could be infected with parasitic worms to prevent transmission.
• Don't forget to monitor the animals your four-legged companion socializes with, especially cats or dogs you don't know. At all times, avoid any contact with wild animals that could be potential hosts for cat worms, such as squirrels and raccoons.
• Schedule regular cleaning and disinfection of your pet's belongings, such as blankets, beds, collars, toys, and other similar items to get rid of any worm eggs or larvae that might be there.
• Immediately quarantine your cat once you notice any symptoms indicating that it might be infected with cat worms. Administer natural remedies as soon as possible to prevent the infestation from worsening.

Can my cat die from a worm infestation?

It is indeed possible. A cat with diarrhea for too long can suffer from severe dehydration. Moreover, you now know that some worms can cause anemia, a condition that can lead to death if untreated. Your cat also risks suffering from malnutrition, as well as the possibility of an intestinal blockage.

What happens if you don't get rid of your cat's worms?

It should be noted that ignoring the signs that your cat is infected with worms can lead to very serious, even fatal, adverse effects.

These effects are significantly more dangerous for kittens, who are more fragile to worm infestations because their immune system is not yet fully developed.

Older cats are also at higher risk, as they may have other underlying conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, kidney problems, and hypertension.

In short, all the symptoms mentioned above must be addressed quickly to avoid a grim prognosis.

Now, let's talk about the types of parasitic worms your cat could be infected with.

What types of worms can a cat get?

And yes! There is more than one type of worm that can infest your feline. In fact, parasitic worms that can infect a cat are classified into two (2) groups, namely common and uncommon, based on their ability to contaminate objects and their prevalence in specific geographical areas.

The common parasitic worms include roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms and whipworms. They are commonly referred to as roundworms, flatworms, hookworms, and whipworms. So what do these cat worms look like?

• Roundworms in cats

Roundworms are the most frequently encountered by our feline friends. The species of roundworms that can infect cats are Toxocara cati and Toxascaris leonina.

They are circular in shape and are usually light brown or white. These worms, also known as white worms in cats, look like small spaghetti, measuring between 3 to 5 inches. They can be easily seen in feces during a significant parasitic infestation.

Rather than clinging to the intestinal walls, these parasites move freely in the gastrointestinal tract. They feed on what your cat ingests and therefore steal essential nutrients from them.

A mother can infect her kittens either during gestation or during breastfeeding. Cats can also get these worms directly through ingesting eggs, but also indirectly through ingesting infected rodent tissues.

Symptoms of roundworms in cats often include diarrhea with mucus and a swollen abdomen.

See below how to get rid of your cat's roundworms.

• Tapeworms in cats

Tapeworms are also common in cats. More commonly known as solitary worms, they can grow in your cat's intestine.

Tapeworms have segmented bodies and can reach up to 28 inches when fully grown. This cat worm breaks into small white segments. They resemble grains of rice or sesame seeds in your cat's feces.

Technically called cestodes, these solitary worms in cats cling to the intestinal walls and steal nutrients from their host.

This type of worm is transmitted through an intermediate host, often a rodent. Our hunting friends are therefore at high risk of contracting this type of worm.

A cat infected with fleas is just as much at risk, because by grooming itself, it ingests these infected parasites. Therefore, a cat with fleas should be dewormed.

Symptoms of tapeworms are often subtle. Cats are even sometimes asymptomatic.

• Hookworms in cats

As their name suggests, these worms have hook-shaped mouths that they use to attach to a cat's intestinal wall to feed on the host's blood. Cats affected by this type of worm can therefore develop anemia.

There are two types of hookworms that commonly infect felines, namely Ancylostoma braziliense, which is considered the most aggressive species, and Ancylostoma tubaeforme.

These parasites are transmitted by the fecal-oral route. Moreover, as disturbing as it may seem, their larvae can migrate through the skin.

They are rather difficult to spot in cat feces, as they measure only half an inch.

Symptoms of hookworms in cats include diarrhea, blood in the stool, weight loss, and weakness.

Continue reading to find out how to get rid of your cat's hookworms.

• Whipworms in cats

There are also whipworms, named after their whip-shaped bodies. These cat worms measure between 45 and 75 mm and can also be transmitted to dogs and humans. It is indeed rather rare for our cats to have problems with these worms, although not impossible.

Whipworms are known to cause a severe intestinal infection called trichuriasis, which is characterized by anemia and acute abdominal pain. The types of whipworms that often infect felines are Trichuris campanula and Trichuris serrata.

As for uncommon parasitic worms in cats, they include bladder worms, heartworms, liver flukes, lungworms and stomach worms.

• Bladder worms in cats

Bladder worms, particularly Capillaria feliscati or Pearsonema feliscati, which infect only cats, lodge deep within the bladder and can cause either severe difficulty urinating or recurrent incontinence.

Besides ingesting contaminated water, the larvae of these cat worms can also infect felines by entering open wounds and lesions when they swim or wade in the same water.

• Heartworms in cats

Scientifically known as Dirofilaria immitis, heartworms are considered one of the most dangerous worms in cats because they can cause very serious and even fatal adverse effects. These parasites are transmitted by mosquitoes that carry their larvae.

• Liver flukes in cats

Liver flukes are trematode parasites that often live in fresh water bodies like rivers, ponds, and lakes. They can also survive in streams and puddles in some cases.

These worms in cats are usually transmitted to felines when they drink contaminated water or eat insects and rodents that have already been infected with these parasites. Metorchis conjunctus is the most common type of liver fluke in North America.

• Lungworms in cats

As for lungworms, these are hair-like worms in cats that move to the lungs and respiratory tract as soon as they infiltrate a feline's body.

They can be transmitted either by ingesting an infected insect, rodent, or bird, or by contact with contaminated water bowls, collars, toys, and similar objects. The lungworm species that affect cats are Eucoleus aerophilus and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus.

• Stomach worms in cats

Although cases involving stomach worms - particularly the Physaloptera and Ollanulus tricuspis types - are still recorded in and around North America, they are considered very rare due to the mode of transmission from one infected cat to another. A feline can only be affected by these worms by consuming the vomit of a sick host.

Can my indoor cat get worms?

Yes, it's possible. Indeed, an indoor cat can still be infected with parasitic worms even if it hasn't set foot outside.

However, as you probably suspect, it is much less likely that your cat will get worms inside your house. That's why we advise you to keep it indoors to protect it (and at the same time save the neighborhood birds).

That said, you might be wondering "How did my indoor cat get worms?"

It only takes a small mouse sneaking into your house, the visiting dog bringing in fleas, or your cat escaping between your legs, for it to become at risk.

What do worms look like in cat poop?

Certain clues, such as the presence of unusual pieces that look like broken rice grains or spaghetti in your cat's feces, may mean it has a worm infestation.

In case you'd like a quick guide to what to look out for, I've prepared a handy list below:

• Gray or white strands that look like cooked spaghetti
• Things that look like pieces or broken rice grains
• White or yellowish ribbon-like segments

Another aspect to note is the presence of movement. It is not uncommon for these worms in cats to still show movement once they are expelled from the host's body.

Can I catch worms from my cat?

Yes, several of the worms mentioned above are indeed contagious to humans. However, our immune system is often strong enough to purge them naturally.

That said, children and immunocompromised individuals are more at risk of catching them.

I suggest you wash your hands after cleaning your cat's litter box and clean it regularly to prevent contamination.

For pregnant women, it is important to wear gloves, or even let your partner clean the litter box! Don't forget, your cat can have worms even if you don't see them!

Also cover your child's sandbox and wear gloves when gardening, as some stray cats may use them to relieve themselves.

How can humans get worms from cats?

Humans can catch worms from cats through several routes. Direct contact with contaminated feces can be a source of infection, especially if hands are not thoroughly washed before eating or touching the face.

In addition, consumption of food or water contaminated with worm eggs or larvae can also lead to infection.

Flea bites are another route of transmission; if a cat is infested with fleas and these fleas bite a human, there is a risk of worm transmission.

Finally, contact with surfaces or objects that the infected cat has touched can potentially contain worm eggs or larvae. Humans can be infected by touching these surfaces or objects, then touching their mouth or face.

How do I know if my cat has transmitted worms to me?

The transmission of worms from cats to humans can cause certain gastrointestinal symptoms and fatigue.

If you suspect your cat has transmitted worms to you, you should pay attention to these signs:

1. Gastrointestinal symptoms: Common signs include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and loss of appetite. Sometimes, you may notice worms in your stool.
2. Fatigue: Worm infestations can lead to anemia, causing fatigue and weakness.
3. Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss can also be a sign of a worm infestation.
4. Skin problems: Some worms can cause itching and irritation on the skin.

If you notice any of these signs, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Should cats with worms be isolated?

Yes, cats with worms should be isolated.

A cat infected with parasitic worms can easily transmit these unwelcome visitors to other felines. One way worms in cats can be transmitted is through contaminated food and water bowls.

Another mode of transmission is the use of a shared litter box. Indeed, the infected cat's feces could contain several parasitic worm larvae or eggs and could easily be transmitted to other cats if they use the same litter box.

Conclusion

This concludes our analysis of worms in cats and how to get rid of them through natural and conventional treatments.

Many cats have had worms during their lives. It's important to be vigilant for the different symptoms mentioned earlier to prevent parasitosis in your feline.

Although very annoying, there are different solutions to fight these different types of intestinal worms. It's important to act quickly to avoid contaminating yourself.

For me, the mere fear of catching worms is sufficient motivation to deworm my animals!

If you're looking to learn more about keeping your beloved pet healthy and happy using a natural approach, our Free Animal Health Recommendation will help you.

In addition to guiding you through useful and practical tips and recommendations, our natural health advisors will also be your guide regarding the products and natural options best suited to your pet's health needs.

External Sources and Scientific References

The information, statistics, and natural treatments mentioned in this article are based on the following scientific research and publications:

• PetMD: Statistics on the prevalence of worms in cats (45%).
• NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information): Study on the antioxidant properties of apple cider vinegar against gastrointestinal parasites.
• NCBI: Research on the phytochemical compounds of coconut oil and their antiparasitic attributes.
• Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture (Iowa State University): Evaluation of diatomaceous earth in a parasite control program.
• NCBI: Efficacy of pumpkin seed extracts for the control of gastrointestinal nematodes.
• NCBI: Effects of curcumin (turmeric) on inhibiting the development of water parasites (Schistosoma mansoni).