Healthy Cats

Roundworms in Cats

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Treatment: Pyrantel pamoate is a safe, effective choice and can be used in nursing kittens. Kittens should be dewormed by 3 weeks of age to prevent contamination of their quarters by ascarid eggs. A second course should be given two to three weeks later to kill any adult worms that were in the larval stage at the first deworming. Subsequent courses are indicated if eggs or worms are found in the stool. Many veterinarians suggest deworming kittens monthly until 6 months of age.

Pyrantel pamoate dewormers can be obtained from your veterinarian. You do not have to fast your cat before using this medication. Be sure to follow the directions of the manufacturer about dosage. Milbemycin, ivermectin, and selamectin are also very effective dewormers, but they are generally used in older kittens and adult cats.

Public health considerations: Ascarids can cause a disease in humans called visceral larva migrans. This is considered to be a serious public health problem and is one of the top zoonotic diseases. Most cases are caused by the canine ascarid, Toxocara canis, but Toxocara cati also can produce this disease. Some cases are reported each year, usually from areas with a mild climate. Children are most frequently affected, and often have a history of eating dirt. Outdoor sandboxes should be covered when not in use to prevent cats from using them as litter boxes, and gloves should be worn when gardening.