How are worms in cats' lungs? - briefly
Lungworms in cats, primarily caused by the parasite Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, enter the cat's body through ingestion of infected prey or intermediate hosts like snails and slugs. Once inside, they migrate to the lungs where they lay eggs, leading to inflammation and potential respiratory issues if left untreated.
How are worms in cats' lungs? - in detail
Worms, particularly lungworms (Aelurostrongylus abstrusus), can cause significant respiratory issues in cats. The lifecycle of these parasites involves several stages and hosts, leading to their eventual migration into the cat's lungs. Here is a detailed overview of how worms end up in cats' lungs:
Firstly, lungworm infection typically begins when a cat ingests an infected intermediate host, most commonly a rodent or a bird. The intermediate host becomes infected by consuming infective larvae from the environment, such as contaminated soil or feces. Once inside the intermediate host, the larvae develop and migrate to various organs, including the lungs, where they are coughed up and swallowed.
When a cat preys on an infected intermediate host, it ingests the third-stage lungworm larvae. These larvae then penetrate the intestinal wall of the cat and enter the bloodstream. From there, they travel to the heart and are pumped into the pulmonary circulation, eventually reaching the lungs.
Inside the lungs, the larvae migrate through the lung tissue and eventually make their way back to the airways. Here, they develop into adult worms, typically within the bronchi or bronchioles. The female worms lay eggs that are coughed up and swallowed by the cat, continuing the lifecycle.
The presence of these worms in the lungs can lead to various clinical signs, including coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, the infection can cause pneumonia or even respiratory failure. Diagnosis often involves detecting the eggs in fecal samples, although this may not be reliable due to intermittent shedding. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic medications that target the adult worms and larvae in the lungs.
Preventive measures include reducing contact with potential intermediate hosts and using anthelmintics that are effective against lungworms. Regular veterinary check-ups can also help in early detection and treatment, minimizing the risk of severe respiratory complications.