Votre chat a des vers? 5 vermifuges naturels pour vous en débarrasser! 2025

 

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

 

Don’t feel alone if they disgust you! I remember finding roundworms in the stool of a foster dog I was taking care of. My heart skipped a beat—even though, as a veterinary technician, I see them often.

 

 

Even if you haven’t made that disgusting discovery, it doesn’t mean your kitty has never hosted these tiny intestinal parasites. A cat can have worms even if you don’t see them in their stool.

 

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

 

In addition to putting your cat at risk for serious health issues, these parasites are also highly contagious to other animals—and unfortunately, to humans as well.

 

Contrary to what many people mistakenly believe, conventional medication is not your only option for getting rid of these unwanted guests.

 

In fact, there are natural treatments you can use to eliminate worms in cats and care for your loyal companion. In this article, I’ll explain which home remedies can help.

 

Keep reading to learn what causes your cat to get worms.

 

 

How does my cat get worms?

 

 

A cat becomes vulnerable to worm infestations as soon as it comes into contact with objects and organic matter already contaminated with the eggs of these parasites. This includes the feces of infected animals, but also collars, toys, combs, scratching posts, and food or water bowls.

 

In fact, most worms are transmitted through ingesting eggs found in infected feces. You might say your cat doesn’t eat feces—fair point. But since your cat grooms constantly, all it takes is stepping on contaminated ground to later ingest the eggs while cleaning itself.

 

Once a cat grooms itself after being exposed to these eggs—typically involving meticulous licking of one part of the body after another—these parasites end up in its gastrointestinal tract, where they hatch and grow.

 

Additionally, transmission is highly likely when a cat eats an infected organism like an insect, rodent, or bird it encounters in its environment.

 

There are even unusual cases where an infected mother passes the infection to her kittens through her milk.

 

Now let’s talk about 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, suffer from diarrhea, have little or no appetite, and may even experience vomiting. In cases of significant parasitic infection, they’ll generally feel unwell.

 

How can I know if my cat has worms?

 

Here’s a more complete list of symptoms that may appear in a cat with a worm infestation:

 

• Mild to severe diarrhea
• Blood in the stool
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Poor coat condition
• Weight loss
• Worms visible in the stool
• Mucus-covered stool
• Weakness
• Rice-like appearance around the anus
• Visible worms exiting the anus
• Anemia
• Bloated abdomen
• Pale gums
• Frequent licking of the anal area and surrounding parts
• Sudden changes in bowel movements

 

These signs are usually present in cases of heavy infestation. Most animals show few or no symptoms during mild to moderate infestations.

 

Keep reading to find out how to protect your cat from these parasites.

 

 

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

 

 

Depending on how heavily your cat is infested with worms, a veterinarian can make a diagnosis and recommend the best dewormer suited to their needs.

 

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

 

To make things even better, these home natural treatments for worms in cats are also backed by concrete scientific evidence.

 

As you can see, there are different strategies available to kill your cat’s worms.

So let’s start by introducing the treatments available at the vet, and then move on to natural home treatments. I’ll guide you through each one and explain how to use them properly.

 

 

Veterinary treatments for cat worms

 

 

After analyzing your cat’s stool, your veterinarian will be able to determine what type of worm is multiplying in their digestive system and offer you the best treatment option to help them recover.

 

Dewormers prescribed by the veterinarian

 

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

 

But you may be wondering: “Why does my cat have worms even after being dewormed?”

 

It’s normal to see worms in your cat’s stool shortly after administering the treatment, as the body purges itself and eliminates them through the feces.

 

However, larvae of some worm types can become encysted in body tissues, making it impossible to eliminate them at that moment. They can remain dormant for a while and multiply later on.

 

This is why worm treatment usually requires multiple doses to avoid recurrence.

 

You might be asking: “How long does it take to get rid of worms in a cat after deworming?”

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

 

Over-the-counter parasite treatments

 

Most over-the-counter dewormers for cats are also effective for treating your pet, but in general, they target a more limited range of intestinal worms.

 

How much does it cost to deworm a cat?

 

The cost of deworming a cat can vary depending on the product used and the country you're in. In general, in Europe and particularly in France, the cost can range from a few euros for antiparasitic tablets sold in pharmacies or pet stores, up to around twenty euros for more advanced products or treatments administered by a veterinarian.

 

 

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

 

 

Here are the 5 best natural treatments to use as home remedies 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 disease, but researchers also reveal that its antioxidant properties may help eliminate worms and gastrointestinal parasites such as coccidia.

 

To use apple cider vinegar as a natural treatment for worms in cats, mix half a teaspoon with your cat's water.

 

If your cat rejects the water and vinegar mixture, you can experiment with other bases like broth or juice until you find a combination your pet enjoys.

 

Also, make sure not to serve apple cider vinegar directly to your cat as it’s too acidic for their stomach. And always choose organic options when purchasing apple cider vinegar.

 

Apple cider vinegar can be harmful, including to the kidneys, if given in large amounts. We strongly recommend checking with your veterinarian before giving your pet any natural product.

 

2) Coconut Oil

 

Coconut oil has antiparasitic properties.

 

A study published in the NCBI reports that the natural compounds found in coconut oil are capable of inhibiting parasitic activity, as seen 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 support your cat during a worm infestation, thoroughly mix ¼ teaspoon into your cat’s food.

Although you can do this up to twice a day, never give your cat more than ½ teaspoon per day as it can cause gas or even indigestion. Also, always choose food-grade coconut oil.

 

3) Diatomaceous Earth

 

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

 

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

Researchers added that although tests do not show diatomaceous earth to be a powerful parasite control agent on its own, it was observed to “help control gastrointestinal parasites (GI) in sheep” when used alongside other natural antiparasitic methods.

To use diatomaceous earth as a natural home dewormer for cats, add ½ teaspoon to your cat’s wet food once per day. Repeat this for two (2) weeks until symptoms of infection disappear.

 

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

It is generally safe to use, but it is always advisable to research the proper quantity and frequency for your pet. Also, make sure to only use food-grade diatomaceous earth.

 

4) Pumpkin Seeds

 

Pumpkin seeds contain natural compounds that help eliminate parasitic nematodes.

A study highlighted in the NCBI reveals that pumpkin seed extracts were rich in cucurbitin, amino acids, fatty acids, berberine, and palmatine—all of which showed positive effects in eliminating parasitic nematodes.

Researchers even concluded that pumpkin seeds could be considered a low-cost alternative to control gastrointestinal nematode infections.

To use pumpkin seeds as a natural treatment to help your cat during a worm infestation, thoroughly wash the seeds and roast them at 350°F for forty-five (45) minutes to an hour.

Let the seeds cool completely, then grind them into a fine powder using a blender or a mortar and pestle.

You can then sprinkle a pinch of this pumpkin seed powder onto your cat’s food. You can continue doing this until the symptoms of infection disappear.

 

5) Turmeric

Turmeric helps eliminate waterborne parasites.

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

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

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

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

 

Were you familiar with these natural dewormers for your cat? Dewormers are essential to treat a parasitized cat. Nature is surprising, and many simple traditional remedies can be found in it.

 

Is garlic a good natural dewormer for cats?

 

Many claim that garlic has antiparasitic properties and could be used as a natural dewormer. But be careful—even in small amounts, it can be toxic to cats. Best to avoid it.

 

 

Homeopathic Product for Cats

 

HomeoAnimo™ offers a completely natural product to support your cat’s health during its fight against worms.

This product is called P.V. Animo (Parasites and Worms), known for helping balance digestive health.

Like most of our products, it also works by strengthening your cat’s immune system, allowing them to help themselves.

 

The product P.V. Animo (Parasites and Worms) targets parasites and worms lodged in your cat’s gastrointestinal tract. It is designed to address roundworms, pinworms, tropical parasites, intestinal worm disorders, and even conditions resulting from infestations.

 

P.V. Animo (Parasites and Worms) is also formulated to relieve progressive weight loss, malnutrition, and even nervous disorders often caused by the presence of these unwanted guests in the digestive tract, using top-quality natural ingredients and a gentle, holistic approach.

 

This natural product should only be administered if worms or parasites are present. It is not intended for preventive use.

 

Watch our video:

 

 

Can I prevent my cat from getting worms?

 

 

Other than keeping your kitty indoors, the best way to prevent worm infestation is by using dewormers.

 

Your veterinarian may recommend antiparasitic treatments annually, or more frequently, depending on your pet’s lifestyle, as a preventive measure.

 

This protocol is especially important for treating kittens, as they often carry worms.

 

Flea control is also a highly effective and important strategy.

 

Here is a list of other simple methods to help prevent your cat from catching worms:

• Always clean your cat’s litter box daily. It’s also essential to have a designated area for cat waste. Using sealed trash bins is highly recommended.

 

• To avoid cat worms, regularly disinfect the inside of your home. Keep the environment as clean as possible. In case of infestation, clean floors and surfaces with disinfectant. Steam cleaning is an effective way to kill worm eggs on carpets and furniture.

 

• Also keep the outside of your house clean. This includes your patio, yard, and other places your cat may explore. Immediately remove dead rodents, birds, and insects that may carry parasites to prevent transmission.

 

• Be mindful of the animals your pet socializes with, especially unfamiliar cats or dogs. Always avoid contact with wild animals like squirrels and raccoons, which may be hosts of feline parasites.

 

• Schedule regular cleaning and disinfection of your pet’s belongings—blankets, beds, collars, toys, and other similar items—to eliminate any worm eggs or larvae that may be present.

 

• Isolate your cat immediately if you notice any signs that may indicate a worm infection. Administer natural remedies as soon as possible to prevent the infestation from worsening.

 

Can my cat die from a worm infestation?

 

 

It’s absolutely possible—a cat with diarrhea for too long can suffer from severe dehydration. In addition, as you now know, certain worms can cause anemia, which can be fatal if left untreated. Your cat may also suffer from malnutrition and even risk developing an intestinal blockage.

 

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

 

Ignoring signs of a worm infection in your cat can lead to very serious, even fatal consequences.

 

These effects are especially dangerous for kittens, who are more vulnerable to worm infestations due to an underdeveloped immune system.

 

Senior cats are also more at risk, as they may have underlying conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, kidney issues, or hypertension.

 

In short, all of the symptoms listed above must be addressed promptly to avoid a grim prognosis.

 

Now, let’s talk about the types of parasitic worms your cat may become infected with.

 

 

What types of worms can a cat get?

 

 

Yes! There is more than one type of worm that can infest your kitty. In fact, parasitic worms in cats are categorized into two (2) groups: common and less common, based on how easily they contaminate objects and their prevalence in specific geographic areas.

 

Common parasites include roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms. They are often referred to as roundworms, flatworms, hookworms, and whipworms. So, what do these cat worms look like?

 

• Roundworms in cats (Ascarids)

Roundworms are the most frequently encountered worms in our feline friends. The species that infect cats include Toxocara cati and Toxascaris leonina.

 

They are circular in shape and usually light brown or white in color. These worms, also called white worms in cats, resemble small spaghetti strands, measuring 3 to 5 inches. They can be easily seen in the stool during heavy infestations.

 

Instead of attaching to the intestinal wall, these parasites move freely in the gastrointestinal tract. They feed on what your cat eats, stealing essential nutrients.

 

A mother cat can transmit them to her kittens either during pregnancy or nursing. Cats can also get these worms by directly ingesting eggs or indirectly by eating infected rodent tissue.

 

Symptoms of roundworm infection in cats often include mucus-covered diarrhea and a bloated abdomen.

 

Scroll down to learn how to get rid of roundworms in your cat.

 

• Tapeworms in Cats (Cestodes)

Tapeworms are also common in cats. Also known as “solitary worms,” they can grow inside your cat’s intestines.

 

Tapeworms have segmented bodies and can grow up to 28 inches when fully developed. These cat worms break off into small white segments that look like grains of rice or sesame seeds in your cat’s stool.

 

Technically known as cestodes, these worms latch onto intestinal walls and steal nutrients from their host.

 

This type of worm is transmitted via an intermediate host—often a rodent. Our hunting feline friends are therefore at high risk of contracting them.

 

A cat with fleas is just as much at risk, since they can ingest infected fleas during grooming. So, a cat with fleas should always be dewormed.

 

Symptoms of tapeworms are often subtle. In fact, cats are sometimes asymptomatic.

 

• Hookworms in Cats (Ancylostoma)

As their name suggests, these worms have hook-shaped mouths, which they use to attach to a cat’s intestinal wall and feed on its blood. Cats infected with this type of worm may therefore develop anemia.

 

There are two types of hookworms commonly found in cats: Ancylostoma braziliense, considered the most aggressive species, and Ancylostoma tubaeforme.

 

These parasites are transmitted via the fecal-oral route. Also—disturbingly—their larvae can migrate through the skin.

 

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

 

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

 

Keep reading to learn how to get rid of hookworms in your cat.

 

• Whipworms in Cats (Trichuris)

There are also whipworms, named after their whip-like shape. These worms in cats measure between 45 and 75 mm and can also infect dogs and humans. It is rather rare for cats to have issues with these worms—but not impossible.

 

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

 

As for less common parasitic worms in cats, these include bladder worms, heartworms, liver flukes, lungworms, and stomach worms.

 

• Bladder Worms in Cats

Bladder worms—particularly Capillaria feliscati or Pearsonema feliscati, which only infect cats—lodge deep inside the bladder and may cause either difficulty urinating or recurring incontinence.

 

Besides drinking contaminated water, the larvae of these worms can infect cats by entering through open wounds or skin lesions while swimming or wading in the same water.

 

• Heartworms in Cats

Scientifically called Dirofilaria immitis, heartworms are considered one of the most dangerous worms in cats because they can cause very serious—even fatal—complications. These parasites are transmitted by mosquitoes carrying their larvae.

 

• Liver Flukes in Cats

Liver flukes are trematode parasites that often inhabit freshwater sources like rivers, ponds, and lakes. They can also survive in streams and puddles under certain conditions.

 

These worms in cats are typically transmitted when cats drink contaminated water or eat infected insects and rodents. Metorchis conjunctus is the most common liver fluke found in North America.

 

• Lungworms in Cats

Lungworms are hair-like worms that migrate to a cat’s lungs and respiratory tract once they enter the feline’s body.

 

They can be transmitted by ingesting an infected insect, rodent, or bird—or by coming into contact with contaminated water bowls, collars, toys, and similar objects. Species that affect cats include Eucoleus aerophilus and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus.

 

• Stomach Worms in Cats

Although cases involving stomach worms—particularly Physaloptera and Ollanulus tricuspis—are still recorded in North America and surrounding regions, they are considered very rare due to their transmission method. A cat can only be infected by consuming the vomit of an already infected host.

 

Can my indoor cat get worms?

 

 

Yes, it's possible. Even indoor cats can be infected with parasitic worms without ever stepping outside.

 

That said, as you probably guessed, it’s much less likely for your cat to catch worms indoors. That’s why we recommend keeping them inside your home for protection (and to help save the neighborhood birds!).

 

Still, you might be wondering: “How did my indoor cat get worms?”

 

All it takes is a little mouse sneaking into your house, a visiting dog bringing in fleas, or your kitty slipping past your feet at the door to become at risk.

What Do Worms Look Like in Cat Poop?

 

 

Certain signs, like unusual bits that look like broken grains of rice or spaghetti strands in your cat’s feces, may indicate a worm infestation.

 

If you’d like a quick reference of what to look for, here’s a handy checklist:

 

• Gray or white strands resembling cooked spaghetti
• Pieces that look like broken rice grains
• White or yellowish segments resembling ribbons

 

Another thing to note is movement. It’s not uncommon for cat worms to still be moving after they’ve been expelled from the host’s body.

 

Can I Catch Worms from My Cat?

 

 

Yes, several of the worms mentioned above can indeed be contagious to humans. That said, our immune systems are often strong enough to purge them naturally.

 

However, children and immunocompromised individuals are more at risk of becoming infected.

 

I recommend washing your hands after cleaning the litter box and regularly disinfecting it to prevent contamination.

 

Pregnant women should wear gloves—or better yet, have their partner handle the litter! Don’t forget, your cat can have worms even if you don’t see them!

 

Also cover your child’s sandbox and wear gloves while gardening, as stray cats may use these areas as their toilet.

 

How Can Humans Get Infected with Cat Worms?

 

 

Humans can catch worms from cats in several ways. Direct contact with contaminated feces is one source of infection—especially if hands aren’t thoroughly washed before eating or touching the face.

 

Additionally, consuming food or water contaminated with worm eggs or larvae can result in infection.

 

Flea bites are another transmission route—if a flea-infested cat is around and one of those fleas bites a human, transmission can occur.

 

Finally, touching surfaces or objects that an infected cat has contacted may expose you to eggs or larvae. You can get infected by touching these and then your mouth or face.

 

How Do I Know if My Cat Gave Me Worms?

 

Worm transmission from cat to human can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and fatigue.

 

If you suspect your cat gave you worms, watch out for the following signs:

 

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

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.

 

Should Worm-Infected Cats Be Isolated?

 

 

Yes, a cat with worms should be isolated.

 

A cat infected with parasitic worms can easily transmit these unwanted guests to other cats. One of the ways cat worms can spread is through shared food and water bowls.

 

Another mode of transmission is shared litter boxes. An infected cat’s feces may contain numerous larvae or eggs, which can easily infect other cats using the same litter area.

 

 

 

Conclusion

 

This concludes our guide on worms in cats and how to get rid of them using both natural and conventional treatments.

 

Many cats experience worms at some point in their lives. It’s important to stay alert for the symptoms mentioned earlier to prevent parasitic infestations in your kitty.

 

Although quite bothersome, there are several ways to combat these intestinal worms. Acting quickly is key to avoiding contamination—even for yourself.

 

For me, the mere thought of catching worms is more than enough motivation to deworm my pets regularly!

 

If you want to learn more about how to keep your beloved pet healthy and happy using a natural approach, our Free Natural Health Recommendation can help.

 

In addition to providing practical tips and guidance, our natural health consultants will guide you in choosing the products and natural solutions that best suit your pet’s specific needs.