Parasites are organisms that get their food by attaching themselves to other organisms. Parasites related to cats feed on the cat’s blood and are normally found on the skin of the cat. Examples include fleas and ear mites. While the external termites can be detected by taking a thorough look at your cat, internal termites are harder to detect. Some of the common parasites that afflict cats have been discussed below.
Coccidia in Cats
Coccidia is a type of microscopic parasites that finds its abode in the cells of the lining of the cat’s intestine. It is caused by eating infected fecal material or a rodent affected by coccidia. Normally, coccidia is eliminated by the immune system. But if it gets severe, it results in diarrhea. The cat becomes weak and dehydrated if it is not treated immediately. The medicines that are used to cure the disease only hinder the reproduction of these parasites. The complete destruction of these is very slow. It is also recommended that you keep the environment clean.
Cryptosporidia is another coccidia which when afflicts, is incurable. However, normally this can also normally be combated by the immune system until or unless the cat has immuno-deficiency disorders.
Giardia in Cats
Giardia is another parasite that affects the small intestine of cats. Its symptoms are usually watery diarrhea, dehydration and weight loss in young cats. Adult cats can normally overcome the ailment via their natural immune system. Cats get this disease by drinking contaminated water. Although it can be treated successfully, it is a serious ailment and must not be taken lightly. Special care must be taken when giving your cat water and food so that it isn’t contaminated.
Ear Mites in Cats
Ear mites are another type of parasites that live in the ear canals of the cat causing excessive itching and frequent ear scratching by your cat. You will also notice your cat vigorously shaking its head. To make sure that it is ear mites that afflict your cat, take a closer look at your cat’s ears and see if you spot dark flecks (ear mites’ droppings). If all the above symptoms are visible then get your cat checked by a veterinarian. Cats can easily transfer these mites from one another so if you have more than 1 cat, be sure to keep the infected cat away from the others. Ear mites cannot be transmitted to humans.
Ringworms in Cats
Ringworms are basically not parasites but a type of fungus. They as such do not cause any substantial harm but are extremely contagious to not only other cats but also humans. This fungus can cause athlete’s foot in humans and in cats it can weaken the immune system if it is not treated in time.
Fleas in Cats
Fleas are perhaps the most notorious parasites known to cat-owners. They suck blood out of cats and can cause anemia in older cats and even death in the younger ones. They also aide in transmitting tapeworms. The infestation can get even worse if your cat is allergic to flea bites. Thus, it is very important that you take care of your cat and try not to create an environment that fosters these fleas.
You should regularly brush your cat’s coat with a comb dipped in soapy water. This will kill any flea that might have attached to the cat. You should also consult your veterinarian if you find your cat infested with flea. The medications are not harmful for the cat but will cease reproduction among the fleas.
In case your cat was infested with fleas, there is a very good chance that there are flea eggs and larvae in the carpet and other such materials. Visit your veterinarian who will recommend a “flea bomb.” This will kill all generations of flea and prevent any future infestation effectively.
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