Can I treat my cat for worms without going to the vet? Causes, symptoms, & treatments for worms in cats

Spotting worms in your cat’s poop or rectum can be an unpleasant sight for many pet parents. But it’s more common than most pet parents realize, with up to 45% of cats infected with at least one parasite.

While it’s easy to panic, the good news is that there are safe, effective ways to address the problem from home with telemedicine for pets. So if you’re wondering, “Can I treat my cat for worms without going to the vet?”, this guide will walk you through what’s possible.

We’ll cover how cats get worms, the symptoms to look out for, the different types of parasites, and what worm treatments for cats are safe. You’ll also learn how to prevent worms in the first place to keep your cat, and other pets in your home, protected.

Can I treat my cat for worms without going to the vet?

Yes, you can treat worms at home with the right medication. Many cases of intestinal worms in cats are highly treatable with a simple deworming plan prescribed by a vet, and online vets like those at Dutch can provide those prescriptions. These treatments are safe and often easy to give at home.

While over-the-counter or natural remedies might sound appealing, they don’t always match the specific type of worm your cat has. That’s why a vet’s input is important to make sure your cat gets their best chance at a fast, full recovery.

Luckily, you don’t need to leave home to get help in most states. With telemedicine from Dutch, a licensed vet can assess your cat’s symptoms, recommend a treatment plan, and prescribe medication that you can order and have shipped right to your door. You get the same expert care you’re used to, without waiting weeks for an appointment and driving across town.

When a vet visit is important

Most cases of worms in cats are treatable, but some situations need a vet’s attention right away. If your cat shows signs like vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, or visible worms in their stool, it’s a good idea to speak with a vet before starting treatment. These symptoms can signal a more serious infection or a type of worm that requires prescription medication to fully clear.

It’s also important to consult a vet if your cat is a kitten, has a weakened immune system, or lives with other pets. In these cases, treating worms quickly and correctly helps protect not just your cat but your entire household.

What are worms in cats

Worms are a type of parasite that live inside your cat’s body, often in the intestines but sometimes in places like the lungs, heart, or even the eyes. They range from long, noodle-like worms you might see in the litter box to microscopic parasites that are only detectable through testing.

The most common types include roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms, which can be picked up from the environment, infected prey, or even fleas. These worms survive by feeding off your cat’s nutrients, which is why symptoms like weight loss, fatigue, or a dull coat can show up.

While worms might sound scary, they’re very treatable, especially when caught early. A proper diagnosis and vet-prescribed treatment can get your cat back to feeling like themselves in no time.

How do cats get worms?

Worms are transmitted in several ways, including contact with parasite eggs, ingesting infected feces, or ingesting the host containing the parasite, such as fleas. .

For example, cats can walk through an area containing contaminated feces, such as a dirty litter box, and ingest it when cleaning their fur or paws. They can also acquire worms when hunting small rodents that are infected.

Once your cat picks up worms, they can live in their muscle tissue and extend into other areas of the body. Ultimately, how a cat gets infected will depend on the type of worm. 

Signs and symptoms of worms in cats

Signs and symptoms of worms in cats can differ depending on the type of worm that infects your feline. Notable symptoms of worms can include:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Anemia
• Coughing
• Poor coat condition
• Low energy
• Malaise
• Weight loss
• Dull coat
• Loss of appetite
• Mucousy or bloody feces

• A pot-bellied appearance

It’s always important to speak with your veterinarian when symptoms develop to determine the type of worm and administer treatment, especially if your cat has diarrhea, anemia, vomiting, and dehydration. These symptoms can impair your cat’s immune system, making them more prone to infections and other diseases.

What are the most common types of worms in cats?

There are a variety of worms that can affect cats, such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. The most common types of worms include intestinal worms, such as:

Roundworms

Roundworms are common intestinal parasites that affect 25% to 75% of cats, while kittens are infected at a much higher rate. Felines can acquire roundworms by eating feces with contaminated eggs. If other animals eat the eggs, they can act as intermediate hosts and pass the infection to cats.

There are three species of roundworms: Toxocara canis (T canis), Toxascaris leonina, and Toxocara cati. The most prominent species is   T. canis, which can spread to humans. T. cati can be passed from mothers to kittens through the milk she produces. This is because roundworms can migrate to the mammary glands, where milk is excreted.

Hookworms

These small intestinal worms are found in most countries and can lead to cats developing gastrointestinal diseases.  Hookworms burrow into the lining of the intestine and may result in weight loss, bleeding, and anemia. Cats can ingest hookworms when they eat infected animals, such as rodents, or feces. 

Hookworms can also be transmitted through skin penetration, such as when a cat walks on or lies in contaminated soil or litter containing hookworm larvae. Common cat hookworms include Ancylostoma caninum and A ceylanicum, but other species can be found worldwide.

Tapeworms

Tapeworms are generally long flat worms composed of many segments that often resemble small grains of rice. These types of worms can sometimes be seen on the hair around a cat’s anus, in their feces, or on their bed. 

The most common tapeworms that infect cats worldwide are Taenia taeniaeformis. Taenia taeniaeformis is passed when cats eat small rodents that are contaminated. This infection frequently occurs in cats that hunt or those that are infested with fleas.

Other types of worms can infect different parts of the body, such as a cat’s lungs, heart, and eyes. Here are a few additional worms to watch out for:

Lungworms

Lungworms are primarily found in the lower respiratory tract and can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. Lungworms are contracted when a cat consumes birds or rodents with the parasites. Once these worms make their way through your cat’s intestines, they can travel to the lungs.

These are often expelled by being coughed up or passed through your cat’s digestive system. However, lungworms often go undiagnosed because the symptoms are similar to those caused by respiratory conditions and larvae won’t always be noticeable in feces. 

Heartworms

Heartworms for cats are potentially fatal parasites that can damage the heart, blood vessels, and lungs. Although cats are more immune to heartworm infections than dogs, cats can still become infected. 

Once a heartworm has found its way into your cat’s body, it can also attack the central nervous system. Another difference between heartworm in cats and dogs is that cats have smaller blood vessels and hearts, so damage can be more severe. 

Heartworms are primarily transmitted through infected mosquitoes that carry heartworm larvae from an infected animal to another and transmit larvae when they take a blood meal. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for heartworm in cats. However, many heartworm prevention options for cats can guard against this.

Eyeworms

Also known as Thelazia californiensis and Thelazia callipaeda, eye worms mainly affect the eye. They are caused by filth flies (such as the common housefly) that deposit larvae on a cat’s eye. These small, white, and long worms move quickly across the eye’s surface and may hide in the tear duct, under the eyelids, and in the conjunctival sac, which is the space between their bottom lash line and eyeball. 

Symptoms include watery and itchy eyes, inflammation, cloudy corneas, and blindness on rare occasions. So if your cat’s eyes are watering and exhibiting the other symptoms mentioned, it may indicate the presence of eyeworms.

How are worms in cats diagnosed?

There are several methods that your vet may use to diagnose worms in cats, and the technique they use will depend on the type of worm they believe your cat is infected with. That said, the most common test is a      fecal flotation test. 

This test includes mixing a special solution with a cat’s stool that causes parasites to rise to the surface, allowing the veterinarian to inspect worms under a microscope and identify them. And with Dutch, you can order a fecal test from our pharmacy and have it shipped straight to your door rather than visiting your local vet.

Some worms are easier to diagnose and may not require testing. For example, tapeworms are visible and leave fragments in a cat’s stool or anus.

Get fast worm treatment for your cat without the vet visit

How to treat worms in cats

In many cases, cats are prescribed oral or injectable deworming medication that kills adult worms and larvae in the intestine. All treatment must be carefully administered to your cat according to your veterinarian’s instructions.

Prescription worm treatment for cats

The most effective way to treat worms is with a prescription dewormer that targets the specific type of parasite your cat has. These medications are designed to kill adult worms, larvae, and eggs, depending on the formulation. Treatments can be oral, topical, or injectable, and may vary in dosage or frequency depending on the severity of the infection.

Some dewormers work within a day or two, while others require a follow-up dose to ensure elimination of all parasites of every life stage. Your vet may also recommend routine deworming for kittens or outdoor cats, even if symptoms aren’t present, to prevent reinfection.

Always follow the exact instructions provided. Missing a dose or stopping early can leave lingering parasites.

Recovery and management

Most cats start to feel better within a few days of starting treatment, especially if the worm infection was caught early. You might notice improvements like a healthier appetite, more energy, and firmer stools. In some cases, it can take a couple of weeks for all symptoms to fully resolve, especially if your cat had a more advanced infection.

During recovery, it’s important to:

• Complete the full course of medication, even if your cat seems fine
• Clean litter boxes daily to prevent reinfection
• Disinfect bedding, bowls, and floors if worms or eggs may have spread

• Monitor for lingering symptoms, like weight loss or ongoing cat digestive issues

Your vet may recommend follow-up testing to confirm that the worms are completely gone. Keeping your cat’s environment clean and sticking to a regular deworming schedule is the best way to support recovery and prevent future infections.

DIY and over-the-counter (OTC) worm treatments for cats to avoid

We know it’s tempting to try natural remedies or over-the-counter dewormers you find at the pet store, but most of these aren’t reliable, and some can even be harmful. Many OTC products don’t treat the full life cycle of the worm, meaning eggs or larvae may survive and cause reinfection. Others use vague ingredients or unclear dosing, which can be risky for your cat’s health.

Homemade remedies, like garlic or herbal oils, are also not recommended. These methods may cause side effects like vomiting, anemia, or toxicity without actually killing the worms.

The safest approach is to use a veterinarian-approved dewormer that targets the specific parasite your cat has. If you're unsure what’s safe, talk to a vet before starting any treatment.

How to prevent worms in cats

One of the best ways to prevent worms in cats is with a parasite control program that includes heartworm and parasite preventative medication and flea and tick treatments. In addition to this, you can use the tips below to keep worms away:

• Visit your vet at least once a year to have your cat checked 
• Don’t give your cat raw meat
• Have your cat tested for heartworms regularly
• Provide fresh and clean drinking water 
• Keep cats indoors
• Test your cat’s feces 2 to 4 times as kittens and 1 to 2 times annually in adulthood
• Deworm pregnant cats to prevent transmission

• Administer deworming treatment to kittens up until six months of age, according to veterinary instructions

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Let Dutch help your cat with worms today from home

Managing parasites, such as fleas and ticks, is important to minimize your cat’s risk for worms. However, most preventive medications can only be provided to your pet with a prescription from a licensed veterinarian. 

That’s where Dutch makes life easier. With a Dutch membership, you can connect with licensed veterinarians online the same day, get a personalized treatment plan, and have prescription medications shipped directly to your door.

Memberships start at just $11/month for a one-year membership for up to five pets and include:

• Unlimited access to vets via messaging and video
• Follow-up support to monitor your pet’s progress

• 24/7 peace of mind without the stress or cost of in-person visits

Whether your cat needs worm treatment now or you’re looking to prevent future infections, Dutch can help you get expert telemedicine for pets from the comfort of home.

Worm treatment for cats FAQs

Will worms in cats go away on their owne?

No, worms won’t go away on their own. Even if symptoms seem to improve temporarily, the parasites can continue living inside your cat, laying eggs and causing internal damage over time. 

Left untreated, worms can lead to weight loss, dehydration, digestive issues, and in some cases, serious complications like anemia or intestinal blockage. That’s why it’s important to treat worms fully with the appropriate medication.

What are the potential risks of treating my cat for worms without professional advice?

Treating worms without knowing exactly which type your cat has can lead to underdosing, overdosing, or using a medication that doesn’t work at all. This could allow the infection to continue and cause harmful side effects. 

Some over-the-counter products also contain ingredients that aren’t well-regulated or safe for all cats, especially kittens, seniors, or those with other health issues.

What are the benefits of getting professional guidance instead of using over-the-counter dewormers?

Professional guidance means you get the right diagnosis, the right medication, and the right dosage for your cat’s specific needs. Vets can determine which type of worm is present and choose a targeted treatment that works right away.

If you’re using a service like Dutch, you also get:

• Fast access to licensed vets online without the wait
• Treatment plans tailored to your cat
• Prescription medications shipped to your door

• Ongoing support at no extra cost in case symptoms persist or change

It’s much safer, faster, and often more affordable than dealing with the uncertainty of store-bought treatments or the expenses of in-person vet visits.

Can humans get worms from cats?

Yes, humans can contract worm infections from cats by directly contacting contaminated feces or soil.11 Common modes of transmission include:

• Children playing in sandboxes where cats have defecated
• Walking barefoot through contaminated soil
• Gardening in soil without wearing gloves

To impede the spread of worms between humans and cats, it’s essential to practice good hygiene and prevent felines from becoming infected in the first place. Here are a few tips to practice effective home hygiene with cats:  

• Washing hands well after cleaning a litter box
• Removing feces from the litter box daily
• Cleaning and disinfecting the litter box regularly
• Washing your cat’s bedding and blankets frequently in hot water
• Vacuuming carpets and furniture where your cat lounges to remove eggs or larvae

• Keeping children from playing in areas where cats may defecate

References

1. Gastrointestinal Parasites of Cats.” Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, 21 Nov. 2019, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/gastrointestinal-parasites-cats.
2. Peregrine, Andrew S. “Roundworms in Small Animals.” Merck Veterinary Manual, Merck Veterinary Manual, 15 Nov. 2021, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/gastrointestinal-parasites-of-small-animals/roundworms-in-small-animals.
3. Peregrine, Andrew S. “Hookworms in Small Animals.” Merck Veterinary Manual, Merck Veterinary Manual, 15 Nov. 2021, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/gastrointestinal-parasites-of-small-animals/hookworms-in-small-animals.
4. Peregrine, Andrew S. “Tapeworms in Dogs and Cats.” Merck Veterinary Manual, Merck Veterinary Manual, 15 Nov. 2021, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/gastrointestinal-parasites-of-small-animals/tapeworms-in-dogs-and-cats.
5. Ballweber, Lora R. “Lungworm Infection in Cats.” Merck Veterinary Manual, Merck Veterinary Manual, 15 Nov. 2021, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/cat-owners/lung-and-airway-disorders-of-cats/lungworm-infection-in-cats.
6. Atkins, Clarke. “Heartworm Disease in Cats.” Merck Veterinary Manual, Merck Veterinary Manual, 15 Nov. 2021, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/cat-owners/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders-of-cats/heartworm-disease-in-cats.
7. Baker, David G. “Eyeworm Disease (Thelaziasis) in Cats.” Merck Veterinary Manual, Merck Veterinary Manual, 15 Nov. 2021, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/cat-owners/eye-disorders-of-cats/eyeworm-disease-thelaziasis-in-cats. 
8. Gastrointestinal Parasites of Cats.” Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
9. Ballweber, L R et al. “American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists' review of veterinary fecal flotation methods and factors influencing their accuracy and use--is there really one best technique?.” Veterinary parasitology vol. 204,1-2 (2014): 73-80. doi:10.1016/j.vetpar.2014.05.009 

10. Gastrointestinal Parasites of Cats.” Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Dutch?

Dutch is an online veterinary pet telehealth service, created by pet parents and board-certified veterinary specialists. We use a science-backed approach to provide pets relief for their everyday physical and behavioral health issues. 

Dutch connects you with licensed veterinarians over video chat and messaging to help you get care for your dog or cat quickly wherever you are — without the stress or expense of a vet visit. We also partner with pharmacies who can deliver prescription medication (in applicable states only) and over-the-counter treatments directly to your door. 

Dutch isn’t a veterinary practice or pharmacy, but a company that helps facilitate these services for pet parents to make veterinary care more accessible to all.

What is a visit with Dutch like?

When booking a video call with a vet, you'll be asked a few questions about your pet’s health issue. Depending on the issue, you may also be asked to fill out a longer questionnaire about their symptoms and share photographs of them so our veterinarians can better understand what’s going on. You’ll then pick an appointment time that works best for you.

During your video call, one of our licensed veterinarians will talk to you about the symptoms your pet is experiencing, ask you questions, review your pet’s medical history if you’ve provided it, and answer any questions you have. The vet will ask to see your pet and their environment. And they may ask you to perform some simple checks on them if needed.

After your video call, the vet will send you a message with a custom treatment plan to help your pet feel better, including a link to buy any recommended prescription or over-the-counter medications. Place your order and we’ll ship it free.

How much will it cost for Dutch to treat my pet?

The Dutch membership starts at $11/mo for unlimited access to the vet. No more long waits for appointments or surprise bills.

In addition to the base membership plan, our veterinarians may also recommend additional medication (Rx and/or OTC) that you will have the option of adding to your plan at an additional cost.