How Do I Know If My Cat Has Worms?

The signs to watch for, the common types found in UK cats, and how regular worming helps.

Quick Answer

Visible worms or rice-like segments near the tail or in faeces are the clearest sign.
Other signs are more subtle, such as a dull coat, weight loss, or a pot-bellied look in kittens.
Roundworms and tapeworms are the most common types found in UK cats.
Regular worming treatment, even without visible signs, is the main way to keep this under control.

Signs Your Cat Might Have Worms

Small, rice-like segments around the tail, in bedding, or in faeces (a sign of tapeworm)
Visible worms in vomit or faeces
A dull, dry-looking coat
Weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite
A swollen or "pot-bellied" abdomen, particularly in kittens
Diarrhoea or vomiting
Scooting or excessive licking around the tail base

Common Types of Worms in UK Cats

01 Roundworms Most common

Roundworms are the most commonly found worm in UK cats. They're often picked up from the environment or, in kittens, from their mother. Heavy infestations can cause a pot-bellied appearance and digestive upset.

Worth knowing: Roundworm eggs can occasionally pose a small risk to people, particularly young children, if there's contact with contaminated soil or litter trays. Good hygiene and regular worming treatment keep this risk low.

02 Tapeworms

Tapeworms are usually picked up when a cat swallows an infected flea while grooming, which is why flea control and worming go hand in hand. The clearest sign is small, rice-like segments visible around the tail or in bedding.

03 Hookworms Less common

Hookworms are less commonly seen in UK cats compared with roundworms and tapeworms, but they can still occur and may contribute to weight loss or mild digestive symptoms.

When to Contact Your Vet

You can see worms or worm segments and aren't sure which worming product to use
Your cat is losing weight, has ongoing diarrhoea, or seems generally unwell
A kitten has a swollen abdomen or isn't growing as expected
Your current worming routine doesn't seem to be working

How Pet Med Direct Can Help

Pet Med Direct stocks a range of worming treatments suitable for cats and kittens, designed to be used as part of a regular preventative routine rather than only after worms are spotted.

If your vet recommends a specific prescription worming or flea-and-worm combination treatment, Pet Med Direct can help with dispensing once your vet has issued a valid prescription.

Some treatments require a valid veterinary prescription. Pet Med Direct can only supply prescription medicines after the prescription has been checked. Always follow your vet's advice and the directions on the product label.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I worm my cat?

This depends on your cat's lifestyle, age, and the specific product used, so it's best to follow the guidance on the product label or speak to your vet for a routine suited to your cat.

Can indoor cats get worms?

Yes. Indoor cats can still pick up worms, particularly tapeworms via fleas, or roundworms from contaminated surfaces or prey brought in by other pets.

Can worms in cats spread to people?

Certain worms, particularly roundworms, can occasionally pose a small risk to people, especially young children, through contact with contaminated soil or litter. Good hygiene and routine worming treatment help reduce this risk.

Do I need to treat for fleas and worms together?

It's often sensible to, since tapeworms are commonly picked up from fleas. Treating both helps break the cycle rather than just addressing one.

Will I always see worms if my cat has them?

Not necessarily. Some worm infestations don't produce obvious visible signs, which is why regular preventative worming is recommended rather than relying on spotting symptoms.

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This this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice.
If you are concerned with your dog’s health, please consult a qualified veterinarian.