Are Cats More at Risk for Worms in Warmer Weather?

Climate affects the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites, such as worms, in cats. As with many other parasites, the risk of infection increases in warmer months.

When Should Cats Receive Preventative Treatment for Worms?

Cats are NOT completely safe in colder months. Factors that play a role in determining gastrointestinal parasite prevention protocol include:

• Age
• Health
• Location
• Traveling
• Climate / weather
• Lifestyle (time spent outdoors, socializing with other animals, etc.)

Talk to your veterinarian about your options and a suitable protocol.

Common Worms

1. Roundworms

Cats can become infected by ingesting feces (or a host such as a rodent) that is contaminated with roundworm eggs. Mother cats with roundworm larvae can also pass them to their kittens in their milk.

2. Tapeworms

How cats get infected: Tapeworm eggs are released into the environment > flea larvae ingest eggs > eggs mature with the flea > infected flea is ingested by a cat (accidentally, after it bites the cat or during grooming). Eating an infected rodent can also cause infection.

A new species of tapeworm, namely Echinococcus multilocularis, is an emerging threat and poses a danger to people as well.

3. Hookworms

Hookworm eggs can be found in the feces of infected animals which contaminates the surrounding environment.

4. Whipworm

Whipworm eggs are passed in their feces, infecting the environment. Transmission occurs:

• When eggs are ingested by a cat while grooming, after being in a contaminated space
• While ingesting something that came into contact with the contaminated environment

The Safest Thing to Do

It’s up to pet parents to minimize and prevent exposure to worms. For the safety of your whole family, deworm your cat regularly with safe and effective products to prevent the infection and spread of gastrointestinal parasites.