Tapeworms And Coccidia – What Other People Are Not Telling You About These Intestinal Parasite

Another common parasite in cats is the tapeworm, which feeds on nutrients in the digestive tract.

All that is visible to the naked eye is the segment, resembling a piece of rice, as it is broken off and expelled through the anus. More often than not, there are no other visible symptoms.

The indoor cat can be infected through fleas, and the outdoor cat not only through fleas but by eating rodents or rabbits. The best preventive is controlling fleas and limiting hunting in outdoor cats.

If you see evidence of tapeworm, such as segments in his feces, he should be examined and treated by the veterinarian. Indoor cats are not as likely to be exposed to the parasites.

Coccidia

An indoor cat may have contracted this disease as a kitten in his previous home, or by eating infected mice, birds or rabbits, or through contract with feces from infected cats. Overcrowding in cat colonies or breeders catteries coupled with poor sanitation contribute to the spread of this pest.

If your cat is off his feed and has diarrhea, have him checked for coccidiosis. Other signs may be listlessness, lack of energy and weight loss. Strict hygiene and medication as prescribed by the veterinarian can alleviate signs of the disease in the indoor cat.

The same treatment will apply to the outdoor cat, but eradication is almost impossible as he may continue to be reinfected. A combination of coccidiosis and roundworms can be fatal in kittens, so seek prompt medical attention if your kitten shows symptoms.