Many cats suffer from gastrointestinal parasites at some point in their lives. In fact, as many as 45 percent of cats may experience this problem, according to Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine. Hookworms are one such parasite. While medical tests are the most accurate way to diagnose hookworms in cats, many symptoms can be indicative of an infestation.
Visibility
Various types of worms are easily visible in cats' feces and on the bottom side of their tails. This is not often the case with hookworms. These parasites are very small and thus usually not visible. Plus, unlike other types of intestinal worms, hookworms can live inside cats for the length of the cats' lives. If however, if you see segments in your cat's feces or near his tail or examine the feces under magnification, you can tell hookworms apart from other types of worms by their slender, thread-like appearance. They are normally less than 1/2-inch in length.
Anemia
Intestinal worms, including hookworms, feed on the blood inside a cat's body. For this reason, severe parasitism can result in anemia in infected cats. Blood loss from the intestines, where the parasites often attach themselves, can also lead to anemia. An anemic cat's feces will look black and tarry because blood is being lost in the feces. Pale gums are another sign of anemia. Untreated anemia can result in death.
Dermatitis
The larvae of hookworms can migrate under the skin of a cat, causing a type of dermatitis known as cutaneous larval migrans. This symptom can be difficult to see in cats because the skin is covered in fur, except in the case of hairless cats. However, a dull coat or fur may be indicative of problems with the skin underneath.
Flu-Like Symptoms
Many cats infected with hookworms exhibit symptoms most commonly associated with the common cold or flu, such as diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite and lethargy. Because of the broadness of these symptoms, they do not serve as a good indication of the presence of hookworms, unless also accompanied by a swollen, pot-bellied stomach and abdominal pain.
Secondary Infections
The presence of intestinal parasites in cats will weaken their immune systems. This will make them more likely to contact bacterial and viral infections and diseases. A cat who is often sick may have a compromised immune system due to an undiagnosed hookworm infection.
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