Why does my cat keep getting parasites?
Cats usually become infected with tapeworms by ingesting infected fleas while grooming or by eating infected rodents. Fleas and rodents become infected by eating tapeworm eggs in the environment. Modern medications are highly successful at treating tapeworm infections, but reinfection is common.
Do parasites make cats hungry?
More serious cases in felines can produce signs of worms such as weight loss, poor coat, weakness, excessive hunger, loss of energy and diarrhoea and sickness. A cat with worms may eat more than usual, but still lose weight and where the diarrhoea is severe it can cause the cat’s bottom to become sore.
What causes a parasitic infection in a cat?
Causes of Parasitic Infection in Cats. The exact cause of a parasitic infection in cats depends on the type of parasite the feline is infected with. External and internal parasites can infect any feline, however, cats with poor immunity, that live outdoors, are very old or very young, or live in poor conditions are more prone to an infestation.
What to do if your cat has a parasite?
Contact your local veterinarian office for an appointment. Collect a fecal sample at home, and mail to a laboratory for testing. There are many options available for confirming a parasite infection. Taking your pet for a checkup to your veterinarians office is a good idea.
What causes an older cat to stop eating?
Though any cat can develop kidney problems, kidney disease is more common in older cats and it frequently causes a cat to stop eating. One of the primary symptoms of kidney disease in cats is nausea, though this condition may also cause your cat to become lethargic and he may lose weight.
Can a parasite be passed from one cat to another?
If you have multiple cats it is recommended to treat them all for a parasite infection if one of them tests positive. Parasites are easily transferred between cats, and can even be passed to humans. Catching the infection and taking appropriate measures can mean saving your pets life and avoiding an infection yourself.
Can a parasite infestation in a cat cause death?
Cats are prone to several different parasitic infections that can cause serious health issues and even death. If left unchecked, it is also possible for our feline companions to transfer those parasites to their owners. Understanding the warning signs and symptoms of a parasite infection or infestation can save the life of your cat.
Can a cat gain weight with a parasitic infection?
It is always a good idea either way to keep an eye on the weight of your cat. No matter if they are a kitten or a senior. It is not uncommon for a cat to have and increased appetite and start eating more without weight gain if a parasitic infection is involved.
What to do if your cat has a parasitic infection?
Preventing your cat from eating insects, rodents, and wild animals is the best way of protecting your cat against parasite infections. Also, avoiding contact with unknown cats and dogs, or even separating your own pets (if you have others) when they appear to be ill are some ways in which you can prevent or mitigate a parasitic infection.
What are the symptoms of gastrointestinal parasites in cats?
They usually cause fairly nonspecific symptoms, such as a dull coat, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, mucousy or bloody feces, loss of appetite, pale mucous membranes, or a potbellied appearance.
