Worms are a common problem for cats of all ages. While many infections cause few symptoms, some can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Regular prevention and good diet go a long way to keeping your cat worm-free.
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What Types of Worms Affect Cats?
The most common worms found in cats are:
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Roundworms – long, spaghetti-like worms found in the intestines
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Tapeworms – flat, segmented worms often seen around the bottom or in faeces
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Hookworms – attach to the intestinal wall and feed on blood
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Lungworms – live in the lungs and airways, causing coughing or breathing issues
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Heartworms (rare but serious) – can affect cats, although much less often than dogs
Each type causes different problems and may need different treatments.
How Cats Catch Worms
Cats can pick up worms from several sources:
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Eating infected rodents or birds (especially outdoor hunters)
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Contact with infected faeces
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Fleas (carry tapeworm larvae)
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Contaminated soil or litter trays
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Infected mothers passing worms to kittens through milk
Even indoor cats can become infected, so routine worming is still important.
Symptoms of Worms
Some cats show no obvious signs, but you might notice:
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Vomiting or diarrhoea
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Weight loss or poor appetite
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Bloated belly (especially in kittens)
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Dull coat
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Scooting or licking the bottom
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Segments of tapeworm near the anus
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Coughing (with lungworms)
Heavy infestations, particularly in kittens, can be life-threatening.
Diagnosing Worm Infestations
Your vet can diagnose worms by:
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Checking for visible worms or segments
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Testing a stool sample
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In some cases, using blood tests or X-rays (for lungworm or heartworm)
Regular check-ups help catch infestations early.
Treatment and Prevention
Worms are easily treated with deworming medications, but prevention is better:
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Routine worming as advised by your vet
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Flea control to break the flea-tapeworm cycle
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Keeping litter trays clean
Kittens need frequent worming early on, as they are highly vulnerable.
The Role of Diet
A raw, species-appropriate diet supports a strong gut and immune system, making your cat less hospitable to parasites.
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Fresh raw food promotes digestive health
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Natural enzymes and a healthy microbiome help resist infestation
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No artificial additives or carbohydrates that might disrupt gut balance
💡 Poppy’s Tip: Our raw cat meals nourish from the inside out, supporting robust natural defences.
Natural Worming Options
Some cat owners prefer to reduce chemical wormers when possible. Natural support includes:
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Pumpkin seeds (contain cucurbitin, thought to paralyse worms)
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Herbal blends (such as wormwood or black walnut, under vet supervision)
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Probiotics to support gut health
Natural remedies can help reduce worm burden but should not replace veterinary advice, especially in severe cases.
Top 5 Takeouts
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Worms are common but preventable with routine care.
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Roundworms and tapeworms are the most frequent offenders.
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Cats catch worms from prey, fleas, faeces or their environment.
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Raw feeding supports a healthy gut, making cats less prone to parasites.
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Natural remedies can support, but regular vet checks remain important.
