- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Few sights are as alarming—and downright gross—to cat parents as white worms. White worms are commonly called tapeworms, says Dr. Kathryn Dench, MA, VetMB, and Chief Veterinary Advisor at Paw Origins.
Tapeworms appear as small, white, rice-like segments (proglottids) and can be found in your cat’s poop, around their butt, and even on their fur or bedding.
“Early detection of worms is critical because these parasites can lead to significant health issues, such as weight loss, diarrhea, lethargy, and anemia,” Dr. Dench says.
We spoke with veterinary experts about the causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention tips for white worms in cats.
Are White Worms in Cats Common?
Though these wiggly worms are nasty, they are common and easy to treat. Kittens tend to get worms more since their immune systems are still developing, says Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM, a vet contributor to Hound Games.
Luckily, early treatment reduces the risk of passing worms to other pets and humans. Dr. Dench explains children may inadvertently ingest flea eggs carrying tapeworm larvae.
Do certain cat breeds get white worms?
Dr. Stacie Atria, DVM, CVA, CVMMP, CVTP, owner at Lotus Veterinary Alternatives, says no cat breed is more prone to worms. However, outdoor cats and those from high-infested areas are at higher risk.
What Are the Symptoms of White Worms?
According to Drs. Dench, Ochoa, and Atria, symptoms of white worms include:
- Soft stool
- Scooting or licking of the anal area
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Swollen abdomen (a “potbelly” look in kittens)
What Causes White Worms in Cats?
The primary cause of white worms is fleas. However, our vets say other causes include:
- Eating fleas carrying tapeworm larvae (i.e., during grooming)
- Contact with contaminated soil or feces (roundworms and hookworms)
- Eating infected rodents
- Eating raw or undercooked meat
Dr. Atria says keeping your cat flea-free and your home clean helps reduce the chances of infection.
What Types of White Worms Can Cats Have?
There are several types of white worms cats can get. Although their color may be similar, they may not share the same cause or other characteristics, like size or location.
Cats can have the following types of white worms:
- Flea tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum): Dr. Dench says this is the most common type of white worm. Flea tapeworms are tiny, rice-like, flat, and one-quarter inch long. They’re located in poop and near the tail and butthole.
- Rodent tapeworm (Taenia taeniaeformis): Meanwhile, rodent tapeworms are less common. Cats get these by eating infected rodents. They appear as small, white segments and are located in the intestines.
- Roundworm (Toxocara cati): Roundworms look like cooked spaghetti and are 3–5 inches long. They can also be found in the intestines.
- Hookworm (Ancylostoma spp.): Hookworms look like threads and grow less than half an inch long. They’re found along the intestinal wall.
- Fox tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis): Dr. Dench says fox tapeworms are rare but serious. They’re less than 5 mm long, and cats get them from other animals, like sheep and rodents.
How Do You Treat White Worms?
If you notice worms in your kitty’s poop or near their rear, don’t panic. As unsightly as they are, they can easily be treated with the help of your vet.
Dr. Dench says prescription dewormers, such as Praziquantel and Epsiprantel, are highly effective. Additionally, while home remedies may be tempting to try, she recommends steering clear to ensure a safe, successful treatment.
“Various home remedies suggested on the internet, such as pumpkin seeds, garlic, or apple cider vinegar, are ineffective and potentially dangerous,” she explains.
Worried about the cost of continued parasite prevention or treatment for your cat? Pet insurance can cover veterinary expenses and help you save money—all the while your pet has access to medical care.
iStock/Alina Bitta
Are White Worms Preventable?
The good news is that we can help prevent our cats from getting white worms. Dr. Atria says preventing white worms requires a three-step action plan, including:
- A regular deworming schedule
- Effective flea control
- Consistent hygiene routine
Additionally, she says flea collars, oral medication, and topical treatments are effective.
Lastly, Dr. Dench recommends using vet-approved flea preventatives routinely—even if you don’t see fleas on your cat. She says preventing your cat from hunting can also help reduce the chance of them getting parasites.
Whatever prevention methods you use, always talk to your vet to pick the best ones for your cat.
