Why Do I Need to Have My Indoor Cats Stool Checked For Parasites?

Many cat owners think that their indoor cats can’t get parasites. After all, parasites come from eating or meeting other animals, neither of which an indoor cat does very often.

So, how could a cat, who lives inside and rarely interacts with other animals, get a parasite?

Well, you know that old saying about curiosity and cats? It’s true. Cats will stick their noses everywhere, especially if there is a new object or smell in the house. Without knowing it, we bring in dirt and microscopic particles on our shoes and clothes all the time. Some of the debris that we bring into our home contains tiny portions of animal fecal matter, which can contain parasite eggs. Your cat will investigate the new scent by sniffing, licking, or pawing at it. If your cat cleans its paws after the investigation, then the parasites have an easy way into its body.

Of course, fecal matter isn’t the only way to transmit parasites. Do you leave the windows open in the summer? Mosquitoes infected with heartworm can fly into your home and infect your cat—all it takes is one bite. Roundworms, another type of parasite, are transmitted by mice, which can find their way into even the most secure home. If your cat catches a mouse, then there is a risk for roundworm.

Do you have any plants in your house? Does your cat ever play with the plant or the soil in the pot? Much of the soil used in potting plants is contaminated with parasite eggs. This is a potential source for an indoor cat to become infected.

Of course, any discussion of parasites wouldn’t be complete without fleas. No matter what, there will always be a way for fleas to enter your home, whether on the backs of mice or through their own desire. Unlike dogs, cats are extremely good at grooming themselves. As a result, the fleas on a cat’s coat are often wiped off, leaving the owner without a clue that there is a flea infestation. Often the cat will swallow the flea which may be carrying immature tapeworms. These tapeworms will then mature in the cat.

Most parasites only pass their microscopic eggs in the stool, so spotting parasites is tricky and usually requires microscopic analysis performed by a veterinarian. However, adult roundworms or tapeworms sometimes may be seen in your cat’s stool, but often go unnoticed. You will still require a veterinarian to help with identification should you notice any worms.

You can fight fleas with medicated gels that you put on your cat’s coat. Other parasites, like roundworm and heartworm, must be treated with medication provided by a licensed veterinarian. Your veterinarian can recommend one product that takes care both problems. If you think that your cat may be infected with a parasite, it’s important to call your veterinarian as soon as possible; every parasite may cause life-threatening problems if left untreated.

Remember, living indoors is the safest lifestyle for a cat. Even though the potential for parasitic infection exists, the risks are much lower than for outdoor cats. With proper monitoring and precautions, your indoor cat can live a long and healthy life.

By: Birdneck Animal Hospital

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Testimonials

Feedback from our clients

  • "Words can not begin to express our gratitude for the care you had given Hunter over the years. When his time came, he watched for you to come through the door and his tail showed his affection towards you. That was most comforting having you there. Thank you.""
    ~R.H
  • ""Thank you so much for taking care of Maggie over the years. Y'all are the best and Dr. Johnson, you are the best vet in the world! God bless you all.""
    ~ J.D.
  • ""Your care for my beloved Mattie these last 10n years made her life, and mine much better….God bless each of you for all you did for us and I'm sure for all your other two and four legged patients.""
    ~E.D.
  • ""Thank you for saving my life." ~T.C."
    ~T.C.
  • ""I can not express how grateful I am for you and your staff… I appreciate everything you did in Beckham's treatment. He was so lucky to have such a wonderful doctor on his side. Thank you for all you do for the benefit of all our beloved pets.""
    ~L.B.
  • ""Dr. Johnson - There are no words that can truly capture your kindness.""
    ~G.B.
  • ""Thank you for the great care you took of Taco and the rest of our family. He is doing great now! He is enjoying running and playing with all four legs again.""
    ~W.C
  • ""People who avail themselves of your services at the clinic certainly are blessed to have such a caring staff....bless you and your devoted staff.""
    ~E.D.
  • ""A sincere thank you for taking such good care of Dulce. We are so thrilled that she is back to her normal self. You gave her the support and care she needed in her darkest hours and kept us confident in her recovery.""
  • ""Just to say how much we appreciate all of you. You all are wonderful people. We feel blessed to have our beloved furry children in your care when they need it. Your professional knowledge and your acts of kindness have a beautiful act all it's own. You are a great vet, compassionate and everything good all in one. You are in our daily prayers.""
    ~T.F.
  • ""Thank you and all of your staff for the excellent care you gave to my wonderful Abbey, who was so much a part of the family. Thank you for all the advice and support you gave to me these last few months. I don't know how I would have gotten through this without your constant support. I will, and I have highly recommended you to family and friends, as I feel you are the best!""
    ~P.B.
  • ""Thank you for taking care of my kitty, Slingshot. He is feeling better and better. My Paw-Paw said that you took extra special care of him and I really appreciate it. So, thank you again for taking care of my cat.""
    ~T.B. (age 6)
  • ""Dr. Johnson, I don't know why you decided to move here from your home in New Jersey, but I absolutely believe it was so you could help me and Mickey. I know coming to someone's home is not what a typical veterinarian would do, but you are obviously an extraordinary man in a world filled with ordinary men….On top of that, your sensitive and wonderful handwritten note arrived and touched my heart…You are one of those quiet, unheralded champions who make life easier for everyone you touch.""
    ~C.W.
  • ""Thank you so much for taking care of Lola when she had her reaction, and your office was already closed. I know you took time away from yourself and your family and I really appreciate it.""
    ~R.M.
  • ""Thank you for giving me more time with my best friend. We are all so grateful.""
    ~A.M.
  • ""Thank you for all of your support for Maxine during her illness. All was very much appreciated and will always be remembered. I have related to all my friends of what a great doctor and staff at Birdneck Animal Hospital.""
    ~O.B.
  • ""Thank you for taking such good care of me over the last 4 years. I am doing well and both legs and feet feel great. You sis an awesome job on me Dr. Johnson, and I'm gonna have a great year this year and I hope to see you only for my check up. You guys are the best!""
    ~Budkus
  • "We can't thank you enough for the wonderful and loving care you gave to"Budkus" while he was in your care. He was so little and so sick and we were so scared for him. Each and every one of the staff members made us feel like we had the only dog in the world. Like nothing else mattered except getting "Budkus" well again. Our deepest gratitude to all of you for the excellent care and attention we received, for your encouragement, comfort, and understanding, and most importantly for saving his life! Thank you so much.""
    ~ J.,B.,C.