Q&A for How to Check Cats for Worms

Routine deworming should be done every 3-4 months, more often if they are hunters. Take care when deworming kittens that they are old enough to take the product. The package insert should guide you on the age at which it is safe for kittens to take the medication.

The signs are quite vague and include a dull coat, pot belly, thin body condition, diarrhea, and vomiting. Not all cats have all these signs, so if in doubt, it's best to worm the cat.

Both cat and dog roundworms can potentially be passed to people, but the risk is low. Tapeworms cannot be passed directly but require an intermediate host, and are therefore unlikely to infect people.

What you are describing sounds like a flea! These can sometimes make their way indoors as eggs on clothing or brought in by other pets, so even though she's an indoor cat doesn't mean she wont get fleas. As well as treating the fleas, you should give your cat a medication effective against tapeworms, since fleas can be host to tapeworm eggs which then infect your fur friend.

If your cat has diarrhea this will make her bottom sore and she will lick it as a result. An upset tummy can be caused by many different problems (including worms) and any diarrhea that lasts longer than 24 - 48 hours means the cat should be seen by the vet.