Parasites and Your Cat

Most puppies and kittens are born with parasites, which they acquire through the placenta, mother's milk, or contact with contaminated materials. That's why it's essential to consult a veterinarian early on to establish an appropriate deworming schedule. Some parasites can pose health risks not only to your pet but also to you and your children, as certain types are zoonotic and transmissible to humans. Additionally, pets can become infected simply by visiting parks, wooded areas, or other common environments.

Fleas

Fleas are among the most common parasites, feeding on an animal’s blood and causing itching, irritation, and allergic reactions. They can also bite humans, leading to various skin reactions. An adult flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day, which settle in dark areas like carpets and furniture, waiting for a host to pass by. Any pet that goes outdoors is at risk of picking up fleas. The best way to prevent an infestation is through proactive treatment. We can recommend preventive medication, which may also be combined with heartworm prevention. Fortunately, some specialized treatments not only protect your pet but also help eliminate infestations within your home.

Gastrointestinal Parasites

Almost all puppies and kittens have gastrointestinal parasites that are passed on to them by their mother. They can also become infected by ingesting parasite eggs through the consumption of small prey or grass. Most gastrointestinal parasites are transmissible to humans. It is therefore important to properly deworm the animal and take certain precautionary measures:

• Wash your hands regularly and encourage your children to do so, especially after playing in the dirt or a sandbox
• Wear gloves when gardening and wash your hands afterwards
• Avoid direct contact with animal feces
• Never eat food that your kitten may have licked

In summary, once a year (at least), at the same time as vaccinations, it is important to plan a deworming plan that will cover the entire year for the well-being of your pet, your children and yourself.

Heartworms

Heartworms are parasites transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. The mosquito will transmit tiny larvae that will make their way to the animal's heart while reaching up to 35 cm in length when adult. It can then live there for several years! Heartworm disease, also called dirofilariasis, is a serious and potentially fatal disease for cats and dogs. Worms can cause a lot of damage even before external signs appear. It is therefore crucial to administer preventive medication every month of the warm season when there are mosquitoes (usually May to October). Ask an AnimaPlus member who will explain the different preventive medications available.