Also known as: Ascaris
L'infection par des ascaris chez le chat est le plus souvent causée par Toxocara cati, l'un des parasites intestinaux les plus fréquents du chat dans le monde. Les chatons sont fréquemment infectés, y compris via le lait de la chatte, et peuvent porter des charges parasitaires importantes. Les larves migrent dans l'organisme, et les vers adultes vivent dans l'intestin grêle. Le parasite a un potentiel zoonotique, pouvant provoquer une larva migrans chez l'homme.
Toxocara cati is a large intestinal roundworm of cats. Infections are very common, particularly in kittens, and contribute to environmental egg contamination.
Cats acquire infection by ingesting eggs from the environment, eating infected prey such as rodents, or, for kittens, through the queen's milk. Larvae migrate through tissues before adults mature in the gut.
Many adult cats show no signs. Kittens with heavy burdens may have a pot-bellied appearance, poor growth, vomiting (sometimes with visible worms), diarrhoea, and a dull coat.
Faecal flotation detects characteristic eggs; adult worms are sometimes seen in vomit or faeces.
Routine deworming with effective anthelmintics clears infection; kittens need repeated treatment starting at a few weeks of age, and nursing queens are treated alongside.
Regular deworming, prompt faeces removal, rodent control, and limiting hunting reduce burden. Hand washing and covering sandpits protect people from accidental egg ingestion.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
