Cats can get worms, which harm their health. Many cat owners want to know how to get rid of these worms at home. This article will share several useful home remedies. It will cover how to spot worm problems, prepare for treatment, use different remedies, and prevent worms in the future.
Knowing the Signs of Worms in Cats
Worms in cats show some clear signs. One sign is a change in the cat’s poop. You may see small white worms in the feces. Sometimes, these worms look like rice grains. The poop may also be soft or runny.
Cats with worms may lose weight. They eat normally but still get thinner. Some cats may have a dull coat. Their fur may not look shiny. Also, a cat with worms may vomit often. These signs tell you that your cat might have worms.
Types of Worms in Cats
There are different kinds of worms in cats. Roundworms are common. They look like spaghetti. Kittens often get roundworms from their mother. Tapeworms attach to the cat’s intestine. You can see small segments of tapeworms in the cat’s poop or around its bottom.
Hookworms are tiny but harmful. They bite the cat’s intestine and suck blood. Whipworms also live in the intestine. These worms can cause serious health problems if not treated. Knowing the type of worm helps with treatment.
Preparing for Home Treatment
Before starting any home remedy, get things ready. First, find a clean and quiet place. This is where you will give your cat the treatment. A small room works well. Make sure there are no distractions.
You also need some supplies. Get clean bowls for food and water. Have some paper towels or old rags. These are for cleaning up. It’s a good idea to wear gloves. Gloves protect you from the worms.
Checking Your Cat’s Health
Before using home remedies, check your cat’s health. Look at its eyes. They should be clear, not cloudy. Feel your cat’s body. It should not be too thin or too fat. Check the cat’s mouth. The gums should be pink, not pale.
If your cat is very sick or weak, don’t use home remedies right away. Talk to a vet first. A vet can tell you if it’s safe to use home treatments.
Natural Home Remedies for Worms
There are many natural ways to kill worms in cats. One good remedy is pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin seeds have a substance that kills worms. Grind the seeds into a powder. Then, mix a small amount with your cat’s food.
Garlic is another option. Garlic has properties that fight worms. But you must use it carefully. Too much garlic is bad for cats. Crush a small clove of garlic. Mix it with your cat’s food in a very small amount.
Using Pumpkin Seeds
To use pumpkin seeds, start by getting fresh seeds. Roast the seeds without salt. Let them cool down. Then, grind the seeds into a fine powder. For an adult cat, use about one teaspoon of powder. For a kitten, use less.
Mix the pumpkin seed powder with your cat’s wet food. Make sure the cat eats all of it. You can give this treatment once a day for a week. Pumpkin seeds are safe and easy to use.
Applying Garlic
Take a small clove of garlic. Peel the skin off. Crush the garlic clove. For an adult cat, use only a tiny bit, like 1/8 of the crushed clove. For a kitten, use even less.
Mix the garlic with your cat’s food. Don’t use garlic every day. Use it once or twice a week. Watch your cat after giving garlic. If your cat shows any bad signs, stop using it.
Feeding Changes to Help with Worms
Changing your cat’s diet can help get rid of worms. Feed your cat more high – fiber food. Fiber helps move worms out of the cat’s body. You can give your cat cooked sweet potato. Mash it up and mix it with the cat’s regular food.
Reduce your cat’s sugar intake. Worms like sugar. If there is less sugar in the cat’s diet, worms grow less. Don’t give your cat treats with a lot of sugar.
High-Fiber Foods for Cats
Good high-fiber foods for cats include cooked carrots. Cut the carrots into small pieces. Cook them until soft. You can also give your cat green beans. Make sure to remove the ends and cut them into small bits.
Another option is brown rice. Cook the brown rice well. Let it cool. Then, mix a small amount with your cat’s food. High-fiber foods help clean the cat’s intestine.
Cleaning Your Cat’s Living Area
Cleaning is important when your cat has worms. Wash your cat’s bedding often. Use hot water to kill any worm eggs. Scrub the cat’s food and water bowls every day.
Vacuum the floors and furniture. Worm eggs can hide in carpets and on cushions. Throw away the vacuum bag right away. This stops the eggs from spreading.
Disinfecting the Area
Use a pet-safe disinfectant. Spray it on surfaces where your cat spends time. Wipe down the areas with a clean cloth. Make sure to get into all the corners.
Pay attention to the litter box. Clean it every day. Replace the litter often. A clean litter box helps stop the spread of worms.
Aftercare and Follow-up
After using home remedies, watch your cat. Check its poop every day. Look for signs of worms. If you still see worms after a week, try a different remedy or talk to a vet.
Weigh your cat regularly. If your cat starts gaining weight, it’s a good sign. A healthy weight means the treatment is working. Also, look at your cat’s coat. It should start to look shiny again.
Preventing Future Worm Problems
Preventing worms is key. Keep your cat away from other animals that may have worms. If your cat goes outside, make sure it doesn’t eat dead animals. Dead animals can carry worms.
Get your cat vaccinated on time. Some vaccines protect against worms. Also, deworm your cat regularly. You can use over-the-counter dewormers or ask the vet for advice.
When to See a Vet
Home remedies work well for mild worm problems. But sometimes, you need a vet. If your cat has a lot of worms, go to the vet. Also, if your cat has other health problems along with worms, see a vet.
If the home remedies don’t work after two weeks, it’s time to visit the vet. The vet can give stronger medicine. They can also check for other health issues.
Tips for Using Home Remedies
When using home remedies, start slowly. Don’t give your cat too much of a new food or substance. Watch your cat for any bad reactions. If your cat seems sick or uncomfortable, stop the treatment.
Be consistent with the treatment. Use the home remedy for the right amount of time. Skipping treatments can let the worms come back. Also, keep records. Write down when you give the treatment and any changes you see in your cat.
Conclusion
Getting rid of worms in cats at home is doable. With the right home remedies, diet changes, and cleaning, you can help your cat. But always be careful. If you’re not sure, ask a vet. With care and patience, your cat can be worm-free and healthy.
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