Say no to the uninvited guests
Cats. Parasites. Protection. These three words are interconnected in so many ways. With the rising concern of parasite infections that affect cats and can potentially spread to humans, there is a need to find solutions to protect both. This is why it’s important to be aware of parasitic threats, solutions, and the right steps to ensure cats stay safe from pests lurking around the corner. Fleas, ticks, and worms are commonly known threats, but more parasites continue to bother our furry friends. That is why we aim to raise awareness of the difficulties parasites pose for cats and solutions to tackle them.
Wouldn’t it be easier if our cats could tell us how parasites bother them? Or even better, when worms start setting up home inside them? There is a way around this. While common, parasites are pesky pests that are always on the lookout for hosts, and that’s not a too difficult task for them. Protection is key, and even though the concept of parasite protection exists with pet owners, it is vital to stay updated to understand the parasite infections and best practices to keep them at bay.
1. Cats don't show major symptoms until the infestation reaches a peak
Parasites are like undercover agents, and despite the discomfort they bring, worm infections or flea and tick infestations are not evidently visible.
2. Co-infestation is common in cats
Due to their specific behaviors like hunting or roaming, cats may invite several types of parasites simultaneously. Consequently, causing bigger issues like a weakened immune system and illnesses, silently impacting the cat's overall health
3. Cats carrying parasites could pass it on to the pet owners
Fleas, ticks, and some worms parasitizing cats can also infect humans– and may be dangerous, especially for children or anyone who is immuno-compromised.
The solution
Cats of any age do not develop immunity to fight or prevent parasites on their own. Undoubtedly, there is a need to develop a protection plan for them. There are several types of internal and external parasites that bother cats. In order to plan a course of action to fight these, the first step is to know these parasites.
Fleas
Fleas are blood-sucking parasites that occur on mammals and birds and are commonly found on cats, dogs and other small mammals housed in multi-pet households as companion animals.In cats, there are several clinical manifestations associated with flea allergy, including miliary dermatitis and extenstive feline alopecia.
Ticks
Tick infestation is highly seasonal in temperate/cold climates with typically two peak seasons, but the ticks may feed all year round.
The direct pathogenic effect of ticks is linked to their blood meal, which may lead to anaemia in cases of heavy infestations. Tick bites could also cause local skin injury or local inflammatory reactions.
Mites
Ear mites can occur in any age group of cats but are more common in kittens and are found all around the world. Ear mites may be tolerated without clinical signs in some animals, but can cause pruritus with ear scratching or rubbing, ear pinnae hematoma and self-inflicted trauma.
Roundworms
Roundworms are common parasites in cats and can affect felines of any age. Clinical signs include potbelly, diarrhea, poor coat and failure to thrive. Larvae developing in the mucosa of the stomach, intestine and bowel may provoke a mild reaction.
Hookworms
Cats can become infested with several hookworm species. All species are blood suckers, but they usually cause only mild digestive upsets and occasional diarrhoea in cats. They may also induce anaemia.
Tapeworms
Adult tapeworm infestations seldom cause severe clinical signs in the cat unless they are present in large numbers. Occasionally, a tapeworm will release its attachment in the intestines and migrate to the stomach. When this happens, the cat may vomit an adult tapeworm of several centimetres in length. In general, the infestation remains at the intestine level.
Three important things to consider for protection are early diagnosis, treatment, and ensuring regularity. While the vet visits may help identify parasite infections, worms may still find a way to hide. Therefore, making the most out of your appointment to develop a treatment plan is crucial; the right kind of parasiticide and regular visits to the vet could reduce the chances of heavy infections. "At Boehringer Ingelheim, we leverage cutting edge research and development in the area of parasiticides to find solutions that are easy for cat owners to administer, knowing that with one solution, they have tackled a wide range of worms and other parasites,” says Michael Horn, Head of Pet Parasiticides, Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health. “Our commitment to pet owners is not only to protect their pets but in turn ensure their own safety from zoonotic parasitic disease."
Additionally, there are many ways you can prevent your cat from getting parasite infections like :
- Keeping their most visited spots clean
- Preventing them from hunting and preying
- Ensuring timely administration of parasiticides
Whether worms or ticks, parasites make life uncomfortable for cats and their owners. Keeping protection solutions top of the list of priorities in cat care can give owners peace of mind and only end in more cuddles.
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