A pet owner must always be aware of the possible culprits which can cause diseases in their cats. One such foe to kitties is lungworm.
What Is A Lungworm?
Lungworms are hair-like parasitic worms that cause respiratory tract infection, bronchitis or pneumonia in cats. The most common species that affect cats are Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, and the one that infests both the felines and canines are Capillaria aerophila. These parasites can cause tremendous damage to the lung tissue and can live in the body for almost two years. Their larva can be detected in the feces and this disease is more common in outdoor cats that are at higher risk of picking up the worms through rodents.
How Cats Get Infected?
Lungworms in Cats are transmitted through rodents like snail, mouse, rat, frog, slug, bird or lizard. These rodents may contain lungworms which can be transmitted to cats’ gastrointestinal tract once they prey on it. These lungworms then traverse through the gut linings which then migrate to the lungs. After reaching the lungs, they transform into adults and lay eggs. These eggs can be seen in the feces of the cat or they may even cough it out.
What are The Symptoms Of Lungworms In Cats?
Heavily infested cat may exhibit symptoms like:
· Shortness of breath
· Wheezing
· Loss Of Appetite
· Wheezing
· Weakness
· Lethargy
· Breathing through Mouth
· Fever
· Pulmonary edema
· Air In Plueral cavity
· Interstitial Emphysema
Treatment Of Lungworms In Cats
Various tests are required for the diagnosis of the worms in cats. These may include: Fecal Examination, tracheal wash, Complete Blood Count (CBC) and X-rays. Once the lungworms are detected, deworming treatment is recommended by the vet. Products like Advocate Cat, Panacur, Revolution For Cats and many more work quite effectively against lungworms. Your vet may also prescribe some antibiotics for treating other worm related infections and inflammations.
Prevention Of Lungworms In Cats
· Cats must be mostly kept indoors so she doesn’t feed on rodents or other transmitters of infections from the surroundings.
· Scoop the feces immediately and don’t leave it for other time even if you are super busy.
· Keep your garden clean and remove any fecal matter or unnecessary dirt from the lawn regularly.
· Spray rodent repellent in the yard.
· Consult your vet if you see any signs of lungworms in your kitty.
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