How To Prevent Your Cat from Getting Parasites

Parasites can cause discomfort and serious health issues, but with the right precautions, you can keep your cat safe. Here’s what you need to know about the most common culprits and how to prevent them.

Fleas: Tiny Pests, Big Problems

Fleas can cause intense itching and discomfort, allergies and even tapeworm infections. Protect your cat by:

• Using a veterinarian-approved flea preventive.
• Grooming your cat regularly and checking for flea dirt.
• Washing bedding and vacuuming your home frequently.

Ticks: More than Just a Nuisance

Ticks can transmit dangerous diseases, such as Lyme disease and cytauxzoonosis, to cats—even if your cat never goes outside! Ticks can make their way into your home on other pets and even you. To reduce the risk:

• Use a tick-prevention product recommended by your veterinarian.
• Check your cat for ticks regularly and especially after time outside.
• Remove ticks with tweezers as soon as you notice them.

Worms: Silent Threats

Roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms can cause weight loss, diarrhea and anemia. Keep your cat safe by:

• Following a regular deworming schedule.
• Keeping the litter box clean.
• Preventing rodent exposure.
• Scheduling regular fecal tests with your veterinarian.

Heartworm: The Hidden Danger

Heartworm isn’t just a risk for dogs—cats can get it, too. Cats can get heartworm from mosquito bites, leading to serious lung disease. Since there’s no cure, prevention is key:

• Use a monthly heartworm preventive.
• Repair window screens to keep mosquitoes out.
• Eliminate standing water around your home.

How to prevent parasites in cats

Preventing parasites is far easier than treating an infection. The best parasite prevention for cats involves a combination of the following:

Maintain Cleanliness:

Scoop your cat’s litter box daily to remove waste, and do a thorough cleaning of the box and change the litter weekly. Wash bedding frequently.

Control Rodents:

Prevent your cat from hunting rodents, which carry parasites. Take steps to keep rodents out of your home and off your property.

Limit Exposure:

Keep your cat indoors or supervise outdoor time.

Keep Things Clean:

Wash your dog’s bedding and vacuum your home regularly.

Check for Fleas and Ticks:

Regularly inspect your cat’s fur, especially around the ears, tail base and between the toes.

Visit your VCA Veterinarian:

Regular checkups, fecal tests and screenings help catch parasites early.

Use Cat Parasite Preventives:

Speak to your veterinarian about year-round parasite preventives for fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites and heartworms.

Regular Veterinary Visits:

Schedule checkups and fecal exams to catch parasites early.

By following these cat parasite prevention tips, you’re taking important steps to ensure your cat’s health and comfort. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice and to determine which parasite prevention strategies are best for your cat.

Find everything you need to protect your pet against parasites so you can enjoy the things you love to do together worry-free. >>