Hookworms feed on the blood and tissue fluids, which can result in anemia.

Hookworms “hook” themselves to the lining of the intestinal wall, hence the name.

Image Credit Todorean-Gabriel, Shutterstock

Kittens are commonly affected by roundworms and other parasites. In kittens, the worms are passed by an infected mother cat through the mother’s milk. When your cat cleans itself, it will likely swallow the larvae or eggs. Another possibility is if your cat walks through an infected area with larvae or eggs that can get on the paws. Roundworms do not attach to the intestinal wall but rather swim freely throughout the intestines.Ĭats usually get infected with roundworms or other parasites from swallowing dirt with larvae or worm eggs (usually in feces). They can grow 3 to 6 inches long and are easy to spot with the naked eye. A roundworm’s body is long with a whitish or tannish appearance with a cylindrical shape. Roundworms look like cooked spaghetti noodles, and if your cat is infected, you’ll see them in your cat’s feces or vomit. In fact, many cats will experience roundworms at some point in their lives. Roundworms are a common intestinal parasite found in cats. Now that we know why your cat is throwing up worms, let’s explore treatment options, what cats can be seriously affected, and seven important tips for keeping your cat or kitten roundworm-free.

We should note that if you notice your cat throwing up worms, take your cat to the vet immediately for treatment, especially if your cat is a kitten. To help ease your mind a bit, when a cat throws up worms, it’s more than likely roundworms, which are treatable. Seeing such a sight can leave you in a panic about what to do. After all, worms are not something you expect to see when your cat vomits. It is unsettling to see your cat throwing up worms.

Long flat worms in cats