Help ensure a healthy life for your cat by learning to identify and understand feline parasites and their warning signs. Fortunately, most cat parasites are not life-threatening and may need only a veterinary visit to treat the problem. Please note that this information is not intended to replace your cat's annual visit to the veterinarian or to substitute for veterinary care.
Ear mites are small parasites that feed on the fluid in a cat's ear tissue. Bacterial infection is a common complication and, if left untreated, can cause deafness.
Symptoms include itching around the ears, discomfort and excessive wax production in the ears. Consult your veterinarian for the proper treatment.
Fleas are tiny insects that feed on blood and create mild to severe discomfort. If swallowed, they can transmit tapeworms. Symptoms include itching, dark, comma-shaped flecks in your cat's fur or skin, or near sleep and play areas.
Thorough cleaning of your cat and his total living environment -- sleeping area, bedding, carpets, cushions, furniture and other pets to remove any eggs is required. Be sure to use only recommended pet-safe cleaning products.
Giardia is a common cat parasite. Symptoms may include foul-smelling stools that may contain mucus, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Clean the cat's litter box often to avoid the disease. Consult your veterinarian for the appropriate treatment.
Lice are small wingless insects with strong claws not generally found on healthy animals. They can cause anemia, self-injury (as your cat attempts to relieve the pain), temperament changes and appetite loss.
There are a number of dips, sprays, or shampoos to use for treatment. Consult your veterinarian and always be sure to read and follow label directions.
Ticks feed on blood and often carry serious viral diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. They vary in size and coloration, so check your cat often. Rocky Mountain spotted fever produces vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and fever; Lyme disease causes arthritis and fever.
To remove a tick, grasp it near the cat's skin with tweezers. Apply gentle traction to remove the entire head and mouth parts. Do not twist. Be careful not to puncture or crush the body to avoid infecting yourself. In addition, make sure to check your cat's environment and treat accordingly.
Hookworms, tapeworms, roundworms and whip worms attach to the intestinal wall and can cause serious illness if not treated. Vomiting or a pot-belly (roundworms), weight loss or no weight gain despite ravenous appetite (tapeworms), anemia, diarrhea, and/or constipation are some of the common symptoms.
Treat your kittens and cats regularly as a preventive measure. Consult your veterinarian.
