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Ascariasis in Cats

Ascariasis is a disease caused by the intestinal parasitic roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides. The roundworms are often quite large -- up to 10 to 12 centimeters in length -- and can be present in extremely high numbers within an infected cat. Infection can lead to abdominal swelling, colic, gastrointestinal issues, and even intestinal rupture.

Symptoms

The following symptoms are common in cats that have roundworms:

• Colic
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Abdominal swelling
• Abnormal feces
• Poor nursing (in females)
• Anorexia
• Coughing (caused when the roundworm larvae have migrated into the animal's lungs)

Causes

Adult cats can become infected through the ingestion of roundworm eggs, which are found in infected food, water, vomit, or feces. Kittens can then contract the parasite during the pregnancy, or by drinking milk from the infected mother. If only one of the newborns in a litter is exposed to roundworms, the entire litter will be at risk of contracting the parasite.

Diagnosis

Upon examination of the cat, a swollen abdominal region is commonly detected. There may also be signs of weakness and loss of appetite. A fecal swab will then be taken to detect the presence of roundworm eggs. Dead roundworms being passed out of the body is another reliable indicator of the disease.