What does it mean if the vet finds worms in your cat's stomach?

Описание: 🦠 Why Do Cats Get Worms? An Introduction to Intestinal Parasites

Intestinal worm infections (such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms) are a very common health problem among cats, whether they are house cats or wild cats. These worms are parasites that live inside the cat's digestive system and feed on essential nutrients, causing health problems ranging from mild to severe.

Cats become infected with these worms through exposure to various sources of infection in their environment. Transmission occurs mainly through ingesting parasitic eggs or larvae.

🔍 Main Causes of Worm Transmission in Cats:

Infection through Contaminated Environment:

Ingestion of Worm Eggs: Cats pick up parasitic eggs directly from soil or surfaces contaminated with the feces of infected cats or other animals, often while grooming themselves (licking their fur and paws).

Contaminated Food and Water: Consuming food or water containing worm eggs or larvae.

Predation and Ingestion of Intermediate Hosts:

Hunting: Cats that hunt and eat prey such as mice, birds, or reptiles may become infected with worms if these preys carry parasite larvae (known as "intermediate hosts").

Insects: Ingesting insects, especially infected fleas, is the most common way tapeworms are transmitted to cats.

Transmission from Mother to Kitten:

Some types of worms (especially roundworms) can be transmitted from an infected mother to her kittens through nursing or even during pregnancy, making kittens particularly susceptible.

Weakened Immune System:

Malnutrition or a weakened immune system can make a cat's body less able to fight off a worm infestation, increasing the likelihood of infection and the appearance of symptoms.

Because of these various factors, regular deworming and preventative treatment is essential to maintain the health of cats and reduce the risk of transmission to other animals or even humans.