How to Deworm a Cat: A Simple Guide Every Cat Owner Can Trust

It’s one of those things nobody wants to think about, but every cat owner eventually has to deal with: worms. Whether you’ve just adopted a kitten or noticed something unusual in your adult cat’s litter box, the thought alone can make your skin crawl. But don’t worry—it’s more common than you think and treatable.

Knowing how to deworm a cat isn’t just about giving them medicine. It’s about understanding the signs, picking the proper treatment, and keeping your home (and your kitty!) worm-free afterwards.

Let’s walk through it together—because when your cat’s health is on the line, you want advice that feels less like a lecture and more like a friend who’s been there.

How Do Cats Get Worms?

Before you can fix the problem, it helps to know how it starts. Worms are sneaky, and cats can pick them up in several ways.

Common Ways Cats Get Worms:

• Eating infected prey (like mice or birds)
• Swallowing fleas while grooming
• Contact with contaminated soil or feces
• Nursing from an infected mother (in kittens)

Even indoor cats aren’t safe. Fleas can hitch inside, and worm eggs can be tracked on shoes. That’s why routine deworming is recommended—even if your cat never sets paw outdoors.

Signs Your Cat Might Have Worms

Worms aren’t always obvious. Sometimes your cat might seem totally fine. But there are a few classic signs you can watch for:

Quick Signs to Look Out For:

• Worms in stool or around the rear (look like rice or spaghetti)
• Weight changes
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Bloating or dull coat

If this sounds familiar, it’s a good time to check in with your vet or consider a deworming plan.

Types of Worms Cats Can Get

Yes, there’s more than one type—and each causes different symptoms. Here’s a quick overview:

• Roundworms: Common in kittens, cause bloating and poor growth.
• Tapeworms: Look like rice near the tail, usually caused by fleas.
• Hookworms: Tiny and blood-feeding, can lead to anemia.
• Whipworms: Rare but possible.

Some of these can be passed to humans, especially kids. If you’re unsure which one your cat has, check out our full breakdown of symptoms and causes of worms to get a clearer picture.

So, How Do You Deworm a Cat?

The part might seem scary, but it’s very straightforward.

Step 1: Confirm the Infection

The first thing you should do is call your vet. Even if you see worms in the stool, it helps to know which type your cat has. Your vet might ask you to bring in a sample of your cat’s poop so they can examine it under a microscope.

If you don’t have access to a vet immediately, broad-spectrum dewormers are available over the counter. But it’s always safest to get a professional diagnosis when possible.

Step 2: Choose the Right Dewormer

You can use a few types of medications, depending on the kind of worms.

• Oral tablets or paste: These are usually given directly or hidden in food.
• Topical treatments: You apply these to the back of your cat’s neck. The medication is absorbed through the skin.
• Injections: Sometimes given by the vet for quicker treatment or in severe cases.

Many dewormers target multiple worm types in one go. Just be sure to follow the dosage carefully. Giving too little won’t work, and giving too much could upset your cat’s stomach—or worse.

Step 3: Administer the Medicine

This is the part where many cat owners panic. Giving a cat a pill is… not always easy. Some tips that help:

• Wrap your cat gently in a towel (a “purrito”)
• Use a pill pocket treat
• Crush the pill (if allowed) and mix it with something tasty
• Ask your vet about liquid options if your cat is especially tricky

And if your cat spits it out the first time, don’t beat yourself up. You’re not alone. It takes practice and patience.

Step 4: Repeat If Needed

Some worms, like roundworms, require a second dose a few weeks later to kill off newly hatched larvae. Check the medication instructions or ask your vet when to repeat the treatment.

Don’t assume one dose will solve everything. Worms are persistent little pests.

After Deworming: What to Expect

Once your cat has been treated, you might notice a few things.

• You may see dead worms in their poop. Gross, but a good sign!
• Some cats might have soft stool or mild tummy upset for a day or two.
• Your cat might seem more energetic, especially if feeling sluggish.

Clean your cat’s litter box thoroughly, wash any bedding, and vacuum around your home. Worm eggs can survive in the environment, and reinfection is always risky.

How Often Should You Deworm a Cat?

For kittens, vets usually recommend deworming every 2–3 weeks, starting at 2 weeks old and continuing until about 12 weeks. After that, they move to monthly preventatives.

Adult cats should be dewormed at least every 3 months, especially if they go outside or hunt. Indoor-only cats may need it less often, but checking with your vet for a proper schedule is still a good idea.

Can You Deworm a Cat Naturally?

Some natural remedies are out there—like pumpkin seeds, garlic, or herbal tinctures—but they’re not always reliable. And some can even be dangerous to cats.

Always check with a vet before trying any natural treatments. Regarding worms, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Because a Worm-Free Cat Is a Happy Cat

Dealing with worms isn’t fun, but it’s one of those things that comes with being a cat parent. And the truth is, deworming is simple when you know what to look for and how to act.

Your cat depends on you to keep them safe, clean, and healthy, and getting rid of worms is a big part. So whether you’re treating an infection or keeping up with regular care, you’re doing the right thing.

Because at the end of the day, there’s nothing better than a happy, healthy cat curled up at your feet… knowing they’re worm-free and loved.