What are cat roundworms?
Roundworms are one of the most common intestinal parasites of the cat. They can be an important cause of illness, and even death, in kittens. As their name implies, these are large-bodied round worms, averaging about 3-6 inches (8-15 cm) in length. They do not attach to the wall of the intestine, as do some worms. Instead, they are literally swimming within the intestine. The scientific name for the feline roundworm is Toxocara cati. Another less common roundworm, Toxascaris leonina, can infect both dogs and cats. Roundworms are sometimes called ascarids and the disease they produce is called ascariasis. What cats are likely to get roundworms? Risk factors for roundworm infection include female cats with pre-existing infection, heavily contaminated environments, and the presence of intermediate hosts (roaches, earthworms, birds). What are the clinical signs of feline roundworms? Roundworms are not particularly pathogenic (harmful) to mature cats, but large numbers may cause life-threat
