4 Cat Parasites To Watch Out For

While not usually fatal, cat parasites are a common occurrence. If left untreated, they may cause serious damage, so it's a good idea to know something about them.

This article covers some of the more common feline parasites and associated signs and symptoms. In some cases, your cat may become susceptible to secondary bacterial and fungal infections, some of which could be severe.

Ear Mites in Cats -- Feline ear mites are the most common cause of outer-ear inflammation in cats. Frequent scratching of the ears and head shaking are the most common symptoms. The most obvious sign is a build up of dry, black wax that resembles coffee grounds.

Ear mites are tiny crab like parasites. They may lead to secondary infections, seizures, deafness, and can cause a rupture of the ear drum. Ear mites need to be treated by a veterinarian since improper cleaning of the ear can make the condition worse and damage the ear.

Giardia -- Giardia is a single-celled parasite that causes an intestinal infection known as Giardiasis. Giardia is protected by an outer shell, so it can survive outside the body for a long period of time. Infection rates are relatively low in cats, but it can be difficult to diagnose and treat.

Your veterinarian will prescribe anti-parasitic drugs for the infection. Giardia may lead to bowel movements containing blood, acute diarrhea, and vomiting, so dehydration is obviously a danger with this condition.

Worms in Cats -- Hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms, and whip worms are some of the more common worm-type parasites. Worms generally live in the intestines and rob your cat of blood and nutrients.

Worms can lead to a variety of symptoms, including anemia, weight loss, excessive vomiting and diarrhea, and constipation. Worms can cause serious illness or death if left untreated, especially in kittens and elderly cats. For example, it's possible for a severe roundworm infestation to form a blockage in the intestine of a kitten.

Multiple treatments may be required to eradicate worms, and testing should be done at least once a year at your cat's annual check up.

Fleas -- Fleas feed on your cat's blood and may cause severe discomfort in some cats. Symptoms of flea infestation include itching along with excessive licking and scratching.

Fleas may ingest tapeworm eggs and your cat may swallow the flea, becoming infested. In order to control tapeworms, therefore, fleas must be eliminated.

Eliminating fleas requires treating both your cat and the environment she lives in, including eliminating the eggs.

Dehydration is a highly dangerous result of the excessive diarrhea and vomiting that may occur with some parasites. Contact your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment if you suspect your cat has a parasite.

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Kurt Schmitt has created a website for cat lovers including information on cat parasites and other cat illness symptoms and problems

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