How to Tell If a Cat Has Worms: Signs, Causes, and What to Do

You’re scooping the litter box or petting your cat’s belly when something feels… off. Maybe your cat’s been acting strange—eating more but losing weight or scooting across the floor like a cartoon. It’s natural to wonder, “Could my cat have worms?”

You’re not alone if you’re asking yourself how to tell if a cat has worms. Worms are more common in cats than most of us think, and they can show up even if your kitty stays indoors. Some signs are subtle, while others are impossible to miss—but they all matter.

Let’s go through what to look for, how cats contract worms, and what you can do to protect your feline friend.

What Are Worms in Cats?

When talking about worms in cats, we usually refer to intestinal parasites like roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, or whipworms. These unwelcome visitors latch onto your cat’s digestive system, stealing nutrients and sometimes causing serious health issues.

• Roundworms are long and spaghetti-like and commonly affect kittens.
• Tapeworms are flat, segmented and often appear near the cat’s rear.
• Hookworms are small but dangerous—they feed on blood and can lead to anemia.
• Whipworms are rarer but still a threat, especially in outdoor cats.

Some worms can even migrate to other organs or be passed to humans, especially children. That’s why knowing the signs and acting early is so important.

How Do You Know If a Cat Has Worms?

Cats with worms don’t always show obvious symptoms at first. However, as the infestation grows, certain behaviors and changes may appear. Here’s what to keep an eye on:

1. Visible Worms in Poop or Around the Rear

One of the clearest indicators is seeing worms.

You might spot:

• White, rice-like pieces (tapeworm segments) near your cat’s tail, in bedding, or stuck to fur
• Long, pale worms (roundworms) in poop or vomit

If you see either of these, it’s time to call your vet. Even if it’s just one piece, there are likely more inside.

2. Weight Loss Despite Normal or Increased Appetite

Worms compete for your cat’s nutrients. You might notice your cat eating more but still losing weight or maintaining their usual appetite while gradually getting thinner. It’s frustrating because your cat looks hungry and healthy—but the weight keeps dropping.

3. Vomiting or Diarrhea

This can range from occasional to severe. The vomit may contain partially digested food—or visible worms. Diarrhea may also come with a foul odor or a slimy texture, especially with hookworms.

Repeated vomiting or soft stool is never “just normal.” It always deserves attention.

4. Scooting or Licking the Rear Excessively

That funny “scoot” across the floor? It’s not just for laughs—it’s often your cat’s way of relieving irritation or itchiness caused by worms near the rectum.

If they’re licking or biting their back end constantly, it’s worth checking for any other signs.

5. Bloated Belly in Kittens

Wondering how to tell if kittens have worms? Look for a potbellied look, even if they’re eating small amounts. This bloating is a red flag, especially with dull fur or a thin frame elsewhere.

Kittens are especially vulnerable. Worms can stunt their growth, weaken their immune system, and even lead to death if untreated.

6. Dull Coat and Low Energy

Worms might affect nutrient absorption if your cat’s usually sleek coat looks greasy, patchy, or lifeless. Pair that with sudden laziness or a lack of interest in toys, and it’s a good idea to schedule a vet visit.

How Do Cats Contract Worms?

Many assume only outdoor cats get worms—but that’s not true. Even indoor cats can become infected, sometimes in surprising ways.

Here’s how it happens:

• Fleas: The #1 source of tapeworms. A cat swallows one flea while grooming, and boom—tapeworm.
• Hunting: Mice, birds, or bugs may carry larvae or eggs.
• Litter boxes or soil: If contaminated with worm eggs, stepping in can lead to infection when your cat grooms.
• Mother’s milk: Nursing moms can pass roundworms to their kittens.
• Human carriers: We can bring eggs on shoes or clothing.

So when people ask how cats contract worms, the answer is—very easily.

How to Get Rid of My Cat’s Worms

Caught the signs? Time to act. Here’s how to get your kitty back on track:

1. Visit the Vet

Don’t go solo. Your vet may:

• Run a stool test
• Identify the specific worm
• Prescribe targeted treatment

2. Start Treatment (But Follow Instructions!)
One dose may not be enough. Some worms require repeat treatments to kill off the full cycle. Your vet will guide you on when and how.

3. Sanitize
Wash bedding, vacuum floors, and disinfect litter boxes. This helps prevent re-infection.

4. Check Other Pets
Worms are contagious. If you’ve got more than one animal, they might all need treatment—even if they seem fine.

Want the full breakdown on oral vs topical meds, safety tips, and how to give a pill to a fussy cat? Tap into our full step-by-step deworming guide for practical help.

Prevention: Keeping Worms Away for Good

Treatment is essential—but prevention is everything.

Here’s how to keep worms from coming back:

• Use monthly flea and parasite preventatives recommended by your vet
• Groom regularly and check your cat’s rear area
• Scoop litter boxes daily and wash them weekly
• Keep food and water dishes clean
• Don’t let your cat eat bugs or prey, even if they seem like harmless trophies

Indoor-only cats are still at risk, especially if you live in flea-prone areas or bring in outdoor shoes. Prevention is cheaper, easier, and a lot less messy than treatment.

FAQs

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Gut, Protect Your Cat

It’s never fun to think about parasites in your pet—but ignoring the signs won’t make them disappear. Worms are sneaky, but the earlier you catch them, the easier they are to treat.

Your cat can’t tell you what’s wrong, but they give you clues. If something feels off—trust your gut. Call the vet, clean things up, and take care of it.

Because a healthy cat isn’t just about treats and toys—it’s about staying alert to what’s happening inside, too.

And the best part? With the proper care, your cat will return to purring, playing, and being their sassy self in no time.