What do worms look like in cats? - briefly
Worms in cats typically appear as small, white or off-white segments that resemble grains of rice. They are often found in cat feces or around the anus, and may also be seen in vomit.
What do worms look like in cats? - in detail
Worms in cats can manifest in various forms, depending on the type of parasite and its stage of development. The most common types of intestinal worms found in cats include roundworms (Toxocara cati), hookworms (Ancylostoma tubaeforme), tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum, Taenia taeniaeformis), and whipworms (Trichuris spp.).
Roundworms are typically white or cream-colored, resembling spaghetti noodles in appearance. They can grow up to several inches long and may be visible in the cat's feces or vomit. Hookworms are much smaller, usually measuring around 10 millimeters in length, and they have hook-like mouthparts used for attaching to the intestinal lining. Tapeworms appear as small, flat segments resembling grains of rice or sesame seeds, which can often be seen moving or attached to the cat's fur around the anus. Whipworms are thin and thread-like, measuring about 30-50 millimeters in length, and they reside primarily in the large intestine.
Symptoms of worm infestation in cats can include diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, a potbellied appearance, and visible signs of worms or segments in the feces or around the anus. However, some cats may not show any symptoms despite being infected with worms. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are essential for maintaining your cat's health and controlling parasite infestations.