Our question this week was:

I have been noticing light brown, flat, very small, oval/diamond shaped seed like things around my cat's bed. She has had worms before but months ago and this is something different. Do you have any idea of what these seed like things could be from? Should I give her de-worm medication anyway?


Thanks - Susie

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. I'm not sure without seeing them but the most common "worm" to look like that are dried up tapeworm segments. Tapeworms are worms that invade the intestinal tracks of cats. They segments can often look like dried up pieces of rice.

They are spread by ingestion of an intermediate which is most commonly fleas or wild animals such as rabbits. Most pets are not bothered or affected by tapeworms. They rarely have medical problems resulting from tapeworms however they are annoying and should be treated.

Treatment is aimed at preventing new infection (controlling or preventing fleas) and preventing animals from eating wildlife. They can be treated by drugs such as Fenbendazole (Panacur®), Febantel (Vercom®), Praziquantel (Droncit®), or Epsiprantel (Cestex®).

To better identify the "worms" – you could call your vet and arrange to take some segments,or your cat in for evaluation and/or a stool check.


Best of luck!


Dr. Jon


P.S. I love learning from my clients. Do you have any tips about this problem or any other general pet tips? I'd love to read it and maybe will even include it in future newsletters. Send me your pet tips!



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