How often should I deworm my cat?

Deworming frequency depends on your cat's lifestyle and risk factors. Indoor-only cats may need treatment every 6-12 months, while outdoor cats or hunters often need monthly treatment. Kittens require deworming every 2 weeks until 8 weeks of age, then monthly until 6 months.

What are the signs my cat has worms?

Signs include: visible worm segments in feces or around the anus (tapeworms look like rice grains), vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss despite normal appetite, bloated belly (especially in kittens), scooting on the floor, dull coat, and lethargy. However, many infected cats show no symptoms.

Can indoor cats get worms?

Yes. Indoor cats can get parasites from fleas (which transmit tapeworms), contaminated soil tracked in on shoes, occasional insects they catch, other pets in the home, or contaminated items brought inside. While the risk is lower, it's not zero.

Can I get worms from my cat?

Some cat parasites are zoonotic (transmissible to humans). Roundworms (Toxocara) and hookworms can infect humans, especially children. Good hygiene, prompt fecal cleanup, and regular deworming protect your family. Immunocompromised individuals should take extra precautions.

Should I do a fecal test before deworming?

Fecal testing is valuable for identifying specific parasites and confirming treatment effectiveness. However, routine preventive deworming is often recommended regardless of test results because: 1) tests can miss infections, 2) prevention is more effective than waiting for infection, and 3) it protects against zoonotic transmission.

When Should I Deworm My Cat?

Get a personalized deworming schedule based on your cat's lifestyle, age, and risk factors.

Cat Information

Age and lifestyle determine parasite exposure risk

Age Category

Lifestyle

Risk Factors

These factors affect parasite exposure

Hunts (catches mice, birds, insects)

Prey animals transmit tapeworms and other parasites

Multi-cat household

Shared litter boxes increase transmission risk

Children in household

Children are more susceptible to zoonotic parasites

Immunocompromised household members

Requires stricter parasite prevention

Previous parasite infections

History suggests ongoing exposure

Treatment History

Optional - helps calculate when next treatment is due

I know my cat's last deworming date

I know my cat's last fecal test date

When Should I Deworm My Cat?

Cat Information

Risk Factors

Treatment History

Frequently Asked Questions

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Cat Information

Risk Factors

Treatment History

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