Deworming Cats: A Detailed Guide for Cat Owners

At Berwick Village Vet, we believe preventative health care is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your cat’s long-term wellbeing. While vaccinations and flea control are often top of mind for pet owners, internal parasite control, particularly deworming, is one of the most commonly overlooked aspects of feline health.

Intestinal worms are widespread throughout Australia and can affect cats of all ages, lifestyles, and living environments. Even strictly indoor cats are not immune, as worms can be transmitted through contaminated soil brought inside on shoes, via insects, or from fleas and self infection. Without regular treatment, internal parasites can cause ongoing health issues that may go unnoticed until they become severe.

Deworming cats is not only essential for protecting your pet’s health, but also plays an important role in safeguarding human health. Some intestinal parasites carried by cats can be transmitted to people, particularly children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Regular deworming is therefore both a veterinary and public health priority.

Common Types of Worms in Cats

Cats can be affected by several different types of internal parasites, each with its own risks and methods of transmission:

Roundworms
Roundworms are extremely common, especially in kittens. They are often passed from mother to kitten during pregnancy or nursing. Infected cats may experience vomiting, diarrhoea, poor growth, and a pot-bellied appearance. Roundworms are also zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted to humans.
Hookworms
Although less common than roundworms, hookworms are particularly dangerous. They attach to the intestinal lining and feed on blood, which can lead to anaemia, weakness, and weight loss. Kittens are especially vulnerable to severe illness from hookworm infestations.
Tapeworms
Tapeworms are frequently associated with flea infestations. Cats become infected when they ingest fleas while grooming. Owners often notice small, rice-like segments around the cat’s anus or in bedding. Tapeworms are also common in cats who hunt.

At Berwick Village Vet, we routinely assess parasite risk during health checks and recommend tailored deworming programs based on your cat’s age, environment, hunting behaviour, flea exposure, and overall health.

Signs Your Cat May Have Worms

Some cats with intestinal worms may show obvious symptoms, while others appear completely normal. Possible signs include:

Weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite,
Vomiting or diarrhoea,
Dull or poor coat condition,
Pot-bellied appearance, particularly in kittens,
Scooting or irritation around the rear end, and
Visible worms or rice-like segments in faeces or bedding.

It is important to understand that many cats show no visible symptoms at all, even with a significant worm burden. This is why routine, scheduled deworming is strongly recommended, even if your cat appears healthy.

How Often to Deworm Cats

The frequency of deworming depends on your cat’s age, lifestyle, and risk of exposure:

Kittens: Every 2 weeks from 2 weeks of age until 12 weeks old.
Young cats (12 weeks – 6 months): Monthly deworming until 6 months of age.
Adult cats (6m+): Every 3 months as a general guideline.
Outdoor or hunting cats: May require more frequent treatment.

Your veterinarian at Berwick Village Vet will help determine the most appropriate schedule for your cat, ensuring effective protection without unnecessary treatments.

How to Deworm a Cat

There are several safe and effective ways to deworm a cat, depending on temperament, age, and parasite risk:

Cat dewormer tablets – Highly effective and commonly prescribed.
Cat dewormer paste – Ideal for kittens or cats that are difficult to tablet.
Combination parasite preventatives – Protect against worms while also controlling fleas and other parasites. Some also cover external parasites.
Cat spot on – very easy to use.

Pregnant Cat Deworming

Special care is required when deworming pregnant cats:

Not all dewormers are safe during pregnancy,
Incorrect timing or product choice can harm unborn kittens, and
Professional veterinary advice is essential.

Berwick Village Vet has experience supporting breeding and pregnant cats. We design safe, evidence-based parasite control plans that protect both the mother and her developing kittens while minimising risk.

We Can Help

Regular deworming is a simple yet powerful way to protect your cat’s health, your household, and the wider community. Whether you are unsure how to deworm a cat, which product is most suitable, or how often treatment is required, our friendly and experienced veterinary team is always here to help. Preventative care today can prevent serious health issues tomorrow and deworming is a key part of keeping your cat happy and healthy for years to come.