Roundworms are probably the most common type of worm found in both kittens and puppies alike. The larvae are transmitted to the kittens when nursing by the way of their mother’s milk. Kittens with roundworms will develop a pot belly like appearance where as the rest of their body remains thin.
Cats acquire roundworms when they come in contact with soil that is contaminated with eggs. The eggs themselves are very hard and can survive conditions in the soil for a long time, until an unsuspecting host happens by.
The worms live in the cat’s stomach and intestine and will grow to be about four to five inches in length. Roundworms resemble spaghetti and you may notice one in your cat’s feces or vomit. The symptoms include weight loss, diarrhea, pot belly, lethargy, and the appearance of worms in feces or vomit.
As part of your kitten’s regular vaccination schedule, your vet will deworm her routinely. The deworming of kittens is usually done in two stages three weeks apart. The medication is taken orally and is very safe.
Although roundworms tend to be rare in adult cats, they should still be checked for worms routinely during their normal veterinary exams.
