Cat Care and Parasite Prevention

Control fleas all year round

Fleas carry tapeworm and cause itching and skin problems. Use a flea product recommended by your vet, treat all pets in the home, and wash bedding regularly. Always use cat-safe products and read the label carefully.

Keep litter trays clean

• Scoop faeces out daily and wash the tray regularly.
• Wash your hands after handling litter, soil or your cat.
• Pick up faeces from the garden and cover sandpits when not in use.

Think about hunting

Cats that catch mice, birds or frogs are more likely to pick up roundworm, tapeworm and lungworm. If your cat hunts, regular testing makes sense.

Look after kittens

Kittens are most likely to carry roundworm and need worming from a young age. Ask your vet for a plan. Check the mother's worming status too, as she can pass worms to her litter.

Know the signs

Weight loss, a dull coat, a pot belly, vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing or rice-like segments near the bottom are all worth a call to your vet.

Test regularly

Many owners test two to four times a year, depending on how much their cat is exposed. A simple postal cat worm count shows whether treatment is needed. Keep a record of the results, and see our guide to worming your cat.