What are the most common cat diseases?
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Even indoor cats can get worms. Roundworm is one of the most widespread forms, contracted from eating infected insects, rodents or birds or by contact with contaminated soil. Roundworms invade a cat's intestines, and can migrate to his bloodstream and organs. Spaghetti-shaped strings in his feces or vomit, a distended belly, dull coat, lack of appetite and diarrhea indicate roundworm infestation. A large buildup of roundworms can be fatal for kittens.
Cats get tapeworm, long and ribbon-shaped, from ingesting a flea that has consumed tapeworm eggs. The larvae hatch in the cat's stomach, attaching to its small intestines. Tapeworms sap nutrients; a feline heavily infested with tapeworms will lose weight and suffer mild diarrhea. Rice-shaped grains around the cat's anus and in his feces signal tapeworm.
Oral dewormer medication is the treatment for roundworm and tapeworm. Cleanliness, flea control and keeping the cat indoors will help fight worms.
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