Symptoms, Causes & Natural Remedies

Tapeworms are a common type of intestinal parasite that affects cats. They are flat worms that can range from under an inch to several inches in length and reside in a cat’s small intestine. It’s common to see what looks like bits of rice in the stool of an infected cat. These parasites can cause several symptoms in cats, including weight loss, lethargy, and digestive issues. In this guide, we’ll discuss the causes, symptoms, and natural treatments for tapeworms in cats.

Symptoms of Tapeworms in Cats

The symptoms of tapeworms in cats can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Some common symptoms include:

• Weight loss: Tapeworms can cause cats to lose weight despite having a healthy appetite.
• Lethargy: Cats infected with tapeworms may become lethargic and lose interest in their usual activities.
• Digestive issues: Cats may experience diarrhea or vomiting as a result of a tapeworm infection.
• Visible tapeworm segments: In some cases, cats may pass tapeworm segments in their feces or you may see them near the anus, which can look like grains of rice.

Causes of Tapeworms in Cats

Tapeworms are caused by a type of parasitic worm called cestodes. These parasites have a complex life cycle that involves two hosts – an intermediate host (usually a flea) and a definitive host (the cat). Cats can become infected with tapeworms when they ingest fleas or lice while grooming themselves or when they hunt and eat prey (like birds, reptiles or mice) that is infected with tapeworms. Additionally, cats can contract tapeworms by ingesting contaminated soil or food.

Natural Treatments for Tapeworms in Cats

1. WormeX: This natural wormer is designed to fight and eliminate tapeworms and other intestinal parasites in cats.
2. Pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds are a natural dewormer that can be used to treat tapeworms in cats. Simply grind up the pumpkin seeds and mix them with your cat’s food. The seeds contain an amino acid called cucurbitacin, which is toxic to tapeworms.
3. Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy that can be used to treat tapeworms in cats. Mix one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with your cat’s food twice a day. The vinegar helps to create an acidic environment in the cat’s intestines, which is inhospitable to tapeworms.
4. Diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural product made from fossilized remains of tiny, aquatic organisms called diatoms. It can be used to treat tapeworms in cats by sprinkling a small amount of the food grade DE on their food. The diatoms are abrasive and can damage the tapeworm’s outer layer, causing it to die.
5. Coconut oil: Coconut oil is a natural anti-parasitic that can be used to treat tapeworms in cats. Simply add a 1/2 teaspoon of coconut oil to your cat’s food twice a day. The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil are toxic to tapeworms and can help to eliminate the infection.

Conclusion:

Tapeworms are a common type of internal parasite that affects cats. They can cause several symptoms, including weight loss, lethargy, and digestive issues. Fortunately, there are several natural treatments that can be used to treat tapeworms in cats, including WormeX, pumpkin seeds, apple cider vinegar, diatomaceous earth, and coconut oil. If you suspect that your cat has tapeworms, it is important to take a stool sample to your veterinarian for a fecal exam.