Intestinal parasites in cats
Also known as Roundworms, Worms, Toxocara cati, Tapeworms.
Roundworms, tapeworms and protozoa that live in the gut. They are almost universal in kittens and in cats that hunt, and some can pass to people.
- System
- Parasites
- Is it urgent?
- Not usually
- Spreads to other cats
- Yes
- Spreads to people
- Yes
- Typical cost in Spain
- Internal parasite treatment, €5–15 per dose; faecal test, €25–50.
Some, such as Toxocara, can infect people, especially children: wash your hands and scoop the litter tray daily.
Symptoms
- Swollen belly in kittens
- Diarrhoea or vomiting
- Worms in faeces or vomit
- White segments near the anus
- Dull coat and poor growth
Causes
Transmission from the mother (through milk), hunting prey, fleas (the Dipylidium tapeworm) and contaminated faeces.
How it is diagnosed
Faecal testing, which does not always detect them.
Treatment
Internal parasite treatments chosen for the parasite involved, as prescribed by the vet.
No doses, on purpose: any medicine must be prescribed by your vet for your cat.
Prognosis
Very good.
Prevention
Regular deworming matched to each cat’s risk, plus flea control.
Frequently asked questions
Are intestinal parasites contagious?
To other cats: yes. To people: yes. Some, such as Toxocara, can infect people, especially children: wash your hands and scoop the litter tray daily.
Can intestinal parasites be cured?
Very good. Internal parasite treatments chosen for the parasite involved, as prescribed by the vet.
How much does it cost to treat intestinal parasites?
As a guide for Spain in 2026: Internal parasite treatment, €5–15 per dose; faecal test, €25–50. Prices vary a lot between clinics and cities, and out-of-hours emergencies cost more.
How can intestinal parasites be prevented?
Regular deworming matched to each cat’s risk, plus flea control.
More in parasites
Educational content from Michipedia. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a vet: if you have any doubt about your cat's health, ask. Costs are a guide for Spain in 2026.