Lungworms in cats: Symptoms and treatment
Lungworms are increasingly common in cats. Cat owners should not underestimate the risk of infection. Untreated infestation with these endoparasites can have serious consequences for cats.
In the following, we will explain how cats become infected with lungworms, the symptoms that may indicate an infestation, and the available treatment options.
How cats become infected with lungworms
As the name suggests, lungworms do not reside in the intestines but in the lungs of their host. Cats are particularly infected with the approximately seven to ten millimeter long lungworm species Aelurostrongylus abstrusus.
Snails play a significant role in the transmission of these parasites. They carry the larvae of lungworms and transmit them to small animals such as mice and birds, which are prey for cats.
Additionally, cats can become infected with lungworms through the environment, for example, by ingesting them with water from puddles.
Regardless, the ingested worm larvae initially pass through the digestive tract to the intestines, where they penetrate the intestinal walls and travel through the blood vessels to the cat's lungs.
Once in the lungs, it takes about six weeks for the larvae to develop into adult lungworms, which then begin laying eggs. From these eggs, new larvae hatch, which the cat coughs up and then swallows, eventually being excreted in the feces. This is how the lungworms are spread by the cat.
Lungworms in cats: typical symptoms
When the lungworms have spread and infested the cat's lungs, they cause a range of symptoms. However, these symptoms are quite nonspecific and can also indicate conditions such as feline asthma or an infection with feline viral respiratory disease.
Infestation with lungworms in cats can manifest with the following symptoms:
- Frequent sneezing
- Coughing
- Breathing difficulties
- Nasal and ocular discharge
Not all cats with lungworm infestation exhibit symptoms
The severity of symptoms associated with lungworm infestation can vary depending on the cat. The number of worms in the body and the general condition of the cat play a significant role.
Otherwise healthy adult cats often show minimal or no symptoms, while lungworms can cause severe symptoms in elderly or weakened cats. Without treatment, this can lead to permanent damage to the respiratory organs and, in rare cases, even death.
Even asymptomatic cats can spread lungworms
Lungworm larvae are excreted in the feces, including in asymptomatic cats. Therefore, it is possible that a seemingly healthy cat unknowingly contributes to the spread of the parasites, infecting other cats.
Lungworms in cats: diagnosis by the veterinarian
If you suspect that your cat is infested with lungworms, we recommend a prompt visit to the veterinarian. The veterinarian can examine the cat's feces and check for the presence of worm larvae.
Keep in mind that your cat may not excrete larvae with every bowel movement. Therefore, to obtain reliable results, multiple stool samples need to be examined over several days.
However, even with thorough examination, it is still possible for an existing infestation to go undetected if no larvae are found in the cat's feces.
Lungworms in cats: proper treatment
If the veterinarian diagnoses lungworm infestation in your cat, it must be treated accordingly. Treatment typically involves administering an appropriate deworming medication orally to the cat.
In some cases, there are spot-on treatments available for lungworms, which are applied to the cat's neck. However, it is important to note that not all deworming medications are effective against lungworms. The veterinarian will provide appropriate guidance.
Lungworms in indoor cats
In theory, indoor cats can become infected with lungworms. For example, if the owner carries larvae into the home on their shoes. However, compared to outdoor cats, the risk is very low.
Tip for cat owners: Strengthen the immune system
The immune system of your cat plays a crucial role in coping with lungworm infestation. The stronger your cat's immune defenses, the better it can tolerate parasite infestation, reducing the likelihood of uncontrolled worm reproduction.
To avoid weakening the immune system, it is important to minimize stress in your cat's daily life. Additionally, ensure that the cat food you choose is of high quality and does not contain inferior or unsuitable ingredients, such as grains.
With I love my cat, you can trust that the cat food meets these requirements and provides your cat with balanced nutrition.
Furthermore, in our product range, we offer I love my cat Immun and Shiimun Immun, two nutritional supplements that deliver essential nutrients to support your cat's immune system.
Lungworms in cats: conclusion
As you can see, lungworm infestation is a serious matter for cats. It is important to take possible symptoms seriously and take prompt action.
Additionally, avoid stress, provide your cat with high-quality, balanced nutrition, and always seek proper treatment for any existing health issues.
By doing so, you not only reduce the likelihood of severe lungworm infestation but also contribute to your cat's overall well-being, ensuring it has a long and happy life.