Did you know that worms could not only be found in soil, but they could also live inside your pet? Yes, parasites like roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms are surprisingly common, even in indoor cats. 

“Studies reveal that 87% of stray cats are infected with at least one type of parasite,” said Pet First Veterinary Clinic.

Below, we’ll explain everything you need to know about cat deworming: what it is, how it works, and how to protect your pusa from these unwanted intruders.

What is Deworming? And Why Is it Important?

Deworming is the process of giving your cat medicine that kills internal parasites. These parasites live in your cat’s intestines, stealing nutrients and making your cat sick. And if left untreated, could lead to life-threatening illness.

Here are some common signs your cat might have worms:

Vomiting or diarrhea – Worms irritate the digestive tract, leading to loose stool or vomiting. In some cases, you might even see worms in the vomit or poop.

Pot belly – Especially in kittens, a swollen belly is a classic sign of a heavy worm burden. It might look cute on a kuting, but it’s a red flag.

Weight loss or poor growth – If your cat is eating normally but still losing weight, or if your kitten isn’t growing as expected, parasites may be to blame.

Dull coat and low energy – Worms rob your cat of essential nutrients, leading to a rough or patchy coat and lower activity levels.

Visible worms in poop or vomit – Roundworms and tapeworms can sometimes be seen. Roundworms look like spaghetti; tapeworm segments look like rice or sesame seeds.

The Hidden Dangers of Worms

In serious cases, especially in kittens or sick cats, worms can lead to anemia, intestinal blockages, or even death. Hookworms, for example, feed on blood and can cause internal bleeding, while roundworms can migrate to other organs.

And it's not just a pet health issue, some worms are zoonotic, which means they can spread to humans too.

“While uncommon, humans can become infected with worms carried by their cats. Roundworm eggs are most likely to cause problems if accidentally swallowed, with the hatching larvae migrating around the body through the liver, lungs, and eyes. In children, this can cause severe eye damage (blindness),” Dr. Rebecca MacMillan said in an interview with Pets Radar. 

“Good hygiene such as washing your hands after handling your cat or their litter tray, as well as regularly de-worming your pet will reduce the risk of this occurring.”

How to Know If My Cat Has Worms

Sometimes the signs are obvious: Muning might have diarrhea, a bloated belly, or you might even see worms in its poop. But in many cases, parasites work silently, slowly stealing nutrients and weakening your cat over time.

“Worms can cause all kinds of problems. Alam mo natin yan, yung poor growth, fat belly, vomiting, diarrhea, anemia, and in severe cases, even death. Kaya hindi sapat ang pahula-hula lang,” said Doc Ferds.

The best way to know for sure is through fecal testing.

“Kukuha lang tayo ng konting stool sample and we will examine it under the microscope. Mabilis lang. And gives us a clear picture,” added Doc Ferds. “Kung positive, we deworm properly and repeat the test after treatment. Kung negative naman, good job. But we will still give preventive deworming.”

Fecal testing is affordable, painless, and one of the smartest steps you can take to keep your cat healthy and parasite-free.

Most Common Intestinal Worms in Cats

Roundworms

These are the most common parasites found in cats, especially kittens. They look like spaghetti — 3 to 5 inches long — and can sometimes be seen in your cat’s poop or vomit. Roundworms feed on nutrients in your cat’s intestines, causing poor growth, a pot belly, and digestive upset. Their eggs are passed through feces, and can infect other animals (and even humans in rare cases).

Tapeworms

Tapeworms are flat, segmented worms that live in the intestines. While the full worm can be long, you’ll usually just see segments that look like grains of rice or sesame seeds near your cat’s anus or in their stool. Cats often get tapeworms by swallowing infected fleas or eating infected rats or birds.

Hookworms

Hookworms are tiny but dangerous. They latch onto the intestinal lining with sharp, hook-like teeth and feed on blood. This can cause anemia, weight loss, and weakness. You won’t see them in your cat’s poop, but signs like pale gums, fatigue, or black tarry stool can be clues. Kittens can get hookworms from their mother’s milk or through contact with contaminated soil.

Less Common (But Still Possible) Worms:

Heartworms

These deadly parasites are spread by mosquito bites and live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. There is no cure for heartworm in cats. There are only monthly preventives. Symptoms can include coughing, lethargy, difficulty breathing, or sudden collapse. Even indoor cats are at risk if mosquitoes get inside the home.

Lungworms

Felines catch lungworms by drinking contaminated water or eating infected birds or rodents. These worms migrate to the lungs and cause respiratory problems like coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing, which is often mistaken for asthma or pneumonia. They’re uncommon but serious when they occur.

Whipworms

Though rare in cats, whipworms live in the large intestine and can cause bloody diarrhea, weight loss, and dehydration. Cats get infected by ingesting contaminated food, water, soil, or feces. Infections are difficult to detect early, and symptoms may be severe before diagnosis.

Stomach Worms

More common in free-roaming cats or multi-cat households, these parasites are transmitted through contact with infected vomit. Symptoms include vomiting, appetite loss, and weight loss. Athough some cats may be asymptomatic. Fortunately, stomach worms are easily treatable.

Liver Flukes

Found mostly in tropical areas, liver flukes affect the liver, bile ducts, intestines, and pancreas. Infection happens when a cat eats a lizard, frog, or snail carrying the parasite. Most infected cats show no symptoms, but in some cases may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or jaundice.

Bladder Worms

Bladder worms are extremely rare and typically don’t cause symptoms. In severe infections, a cat may show signs of urinary tract disease. The parasite's eggs are shed through urine, making it hard to detect without lab tests.

What About Ringworm?

Despite its name, ringworm is not a worm. It’s a fungal infection that affects the skin, fur, and nails. It causes circular bald spots and is highly contagious to other pets and humans.

When to Deworm Your Cat

Here’s the general schedule vets recommend:

For Kittens:

• First dose: 2–3 weeks old
  
• Then: Every 2 weeks until 12 weeks old
  
• Then: Monthly until 6 months old

For Adult Cats:

• Every 3 months (quarterly)
  
• If your cat goes outside or eats raw food, you may need to deworm more often.

For Adopted or Rescue Cats:

• Deworm as soon as possible after adoption
  
• Then follow the adult or kitten schedule

It goes without saying that you should strictly follow your cat’s deworming schedule to avoid exposing Mingming to potential worm risks.

“Kasi akala nung iba, basta na deworm na once, okay na. Pero the truth is, kittens are especially vulnerable to intestinal parasites like groundworms and hookworms,” Doc Ferds said.

How Much Does It Cost to Deworm a Cat?

Deworming costs can vary depending on your cat’s size, age, and the type of dewormer used. Here's a general guide:

Over-the-counter (OTC) dewormers:

• Tablets or liquids: typically around ₱40 per dose
  
• Spot-on treatments: ₱180–₱400, depending on brand and coverage (some also protect against ticks and fleas)

Vet-administered deworming:

• In-clinic deworming: ₱500–₱1,500 per visit, including consultation and medication
  
• Fecal exam (if needed): ₱300–₱700
  
• Follow-up or repeat dose: May be required 2–3 weeks later, depending on the type of worm

Kittens:

Because they need multiple rounds of deworming (starting at 3 weeks old), the cost may add up. Many vet clinics offer kitten packages that include vaccines and deworming at a discounted rate.

What to Expect After Deworming

So, you’ve given the medicine, now what? Here’s what’s normal after deworming:

• Worms in poop – Yes, it’s gross, but it means the treatment is working. The parasites are being expelled.
• Mild vomiting or diarrhea – This can happen as your cat’s body clears out the dead worms. It usually goes away in a day or two.

“After deworming, you might notice some changes in your kitten’s behavior or in their litter box habits. This is normal and usually not a cause for alarm,” said Lakeland Animal Clinic.

However, call your vet if you notice any of the following:

• Your cat seems very tired or won’t eat for more than a day
• There’s blood in the stool
• Symptoms last more than 48 hours

In most cases, your cat will bounce back quickly, and feel much better without those pesky parasites.

How to Prevent Worms from Coming Back

Deworming is just one part of the puzzle. To keep your cat worm-free for the long term, prevention is key.

Here’s how to reduce the risk of reinfection:

• Scoop the litter box daily – Worm eggs can survive in feces and re-infect your cat (or other pets!).
• Use flea prevention – Fleas are a common source of tapeworms. Regular flea treatment is a must.
• Avoid feeding raw meat – Raw meat can contain parasite eggs or larvae. Stick to properly cooked or commercial food.
• Keep your cat indoors – Or supervise outdoor time to prevent contact with infected soil, prey, or feces.
• Disinfect regularly – Clean food bowls, bedding, and toys. This reduces the risk of parasite transmission in multi-cat households.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I deworm my cat?

Every 3 months for adult cats. Kittens need it more often.

When should I deworm kittens?

Kittens can be dewormed as early as 3 weeks old, then every 2 weeks until they’re 8–9 weeks old. After that, deworm monthly until they’re 6 months old.

Can I deworm my cat at home?

Yes, many dewormers are over-the-counter. But always check with your vet first, especially for kittens or sick cats.

My cat stays indoors. Does she still need deworming?

Yes! Worm eggs can stick to your shoes, clothes, or grocery bags. Meanwhile , feas can sneak in through windows or on other pets.

Conclusion

Deworming isn’t just a one-time thing, it’s a lifelong habit that protects your cat from harmful parasites and keeps your home safe too. Whether you’re raising a rescued puspin or pampering a Persian, regular deworming is one of the simplest, most powerful ways to show your love.

"Because a worm-free kitten is a happy, healthy future cat… Let’s raise our kittens right, protected, parasite-free, and full of life,” Doc Ferds concluded.