Should I Consider Preventative Treatment for My Cats with Worms?
F19, I currently only have a Nexplanon for medication, and I often feel self-conscious about my height and my weight, feeling a bit stubby. This situation feels particularly unsettling for me since I have an existing fear of pests on animals. I'm questioning if my reaction is overly intense or if I'm not taking this seriously enough. Right now, I’m taking care of my mom’s house from Wednesday until early Monday. They have a spacious home and five cats that live partially indoors (since they are on a farm, some cats stay fully outdoors while others are indoor pets). Recently, I believe I spotted one of the cats vomiting a worm, likely intestinal worms. I would typically ask the vet forum for advice, but they don’t allow medical inquiries, so I’m wondering just how concerned I should be about this situation. I’m avoiding any contact with them, keeping things clean, but the thought of getting worms is really disturbing to me. Is this something to be genuinely concerned about? The house itself is tidy, and it doesn’t have that unpleasant, musty smell often associated with haywire cat environments. They also own two dogs, one of which enjoys licking my legs, which I find pretty gross. I lack regular access to medical services due to my current unemployment and not being in school. If I had that option, I would simply schedule a checkup. However, if this is a matter of real concern, I am open to seeking medical assistance. If there are any over-the-counter preventative treatments available at stores like Walmart, I would appreciate any suggestions. I find it difficult to discuss this with my mom because she often dismisses my concerns about pests and bugs, so I can’t rely on her for help. Please advise me on the best course of action! 😭
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 2:00:48 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel uneasy about the potential for worms in cats, especially if you're concerned about pests. It’s important to address your worries while ensuring you and the pets around you remain safe.
Main Points:
- Intestinal worms in cats can pose health risks to humans, but the actual risk of transmission is manageable with proper precautions.
- Preventative treatment for pets is crucial and can be sought from local stores or online options.
Explanation: Intestinal worms in cats, such as roundworms or tapeworms, can potentially be transmitted to humans, especially if a person ingests eggs or larvae found in the environment. However, the risk is relatively low if good hygiene is practiced. Cats should be regularly dewormed, particularly those that spend time outdoors, to prevent these infestations.
Next Steps:
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Encourage Deworming for Cats:
- Advise your mom or the cat owner to take the cats to the vet for a proper diagnosis and deworming treatment. This is the most effective approach. Over-the-counter medications are available, like praziquantel or pyrantel pamoate, but it’s best for pets to be evaluated by a vet first.
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Maintain Hygiene:
- Wash your hands thoroughly after touching the cats or items like their litter boxes. Avoid contact with cat feces, which may carry worm eggs.
- Keep living spaces clean by vacuuming regularly and cleaning shared areas.
-
Monitor Health:
- If you start experiencing symptoms such as gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea), or notice any unusual symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.
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Personal Comfort:
- If the dog is licking you and that makes you uncomfortable, try to redirect its attention or gently move away when it happens. It’s okay to set boundaries with animals as needed.
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Educate Yourself:
- Learn more about worms in pets and their impact on human health. Knowledge can help reduce anxiety and allow for proper precautions.
Handling pests and health worries can be stressful, but focusing on prevention and hygiene can alleviate risks and help you feel more secure. If you continue to feel anxious, consider speaking with someone you trust about your concerns. You’re not alone in this!
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