If your cat is experiencing persistent coughing and low energy levels, lungworm infection might be the cause. Lungworms are parasitic worms that can affect your cat's respiratory system, leading to serious health issues if left untreated. While they are less common than intestinal worms, lungworms can still pose significant risks to your cat’s health.
These parasites are often picked up from the environment or other animals and can quickly find their way into your cat's lungs, causing breathing difficulties and discomfort. Identifying symptoms at an early stage and getting timely treatment is essential for your cat's recovery. Discover the warning signs, risks, and available treatments for lungworm infections in cats to keep your furry companion healthy and thriving.
What Are Lungworms?
Lungworms are parasitic worms that infect the respiratory system of their host, using the host's nutrients to survive and reproduce, often causing health issues in the process. While lungworms in dogs are common, they typically do not affect cats. Cats are susceptible to different types of lungworms: Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (feline lungworm) and Capillaria aerophilus (a bronchial capillarid that can affect both cats and dogs). Both types can cause damage to a cat’s lungs and overall respiratory health.
Symptoms of Lungworm Infection in Cats
Many cats infected with lungworms may not show obvious signs, especially in mild cases. However, kittens, cats with weakened immune systems, or those with severe infestations may display noticeable symptoms, such as:
- Persistent coughing
- Wheezing or labored breathing
- Open-mouth breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Bronchitis or tracheitis
- Bacterial pneumonia
- Nasal discharge
- Increased heart rate
- Fatigue or lack of interest in play
- Lethargy or depression
- Loss of appetite (anorexia)
- Weight loss (emaciation)
How Dangerous Are Lungworms for Cats?
In healthy adult cats, lungworm infections may cause mild symptoms or none at all. However, in kittens, elderly cats, or cats with compromised immune systems, the condition can become severe, potentially leading to bronchitis, pneumonia, and even respiratory failure. If left untreated, lungworm infections can severely impact a cat’s quality of life and, in extreme cases, be life-threatening.
How Do Cats Get Lungworms?
Cats become infected with lungworms by ingesting larvae from contaminated sources. This can happen through:
- Eating infected prey such as birds, rodents, frogs, or lizards
- Consuming snails or slugs directly or indirectly through other animals that have eaten them
- Accidentally ingesting tiny infected slugs found on toys, food bowls, or even on their fur
After being ingested, the larvae move from the cat's intestines to the lungs, where they develop into adult worms. These worms deposit eggs in the lung tissue, which hatch into larvae and trigger breathing problems. The larvae are then coughed up, swallowed, and excreted in the cat's feces, repeating the cycle.
Diagnosing Lungworm in Cats
If you suspect your cat has lungworms, your veterinarian will start by discussing the symptoms you've noticed. To confirm the diagnosis, your vet may perform several tests, including:
- Conducting blood tests to detect signs of infection or inflammation
- Using X-rays to assess the health and condition of the lungs
- Bronchoscopy to view the airways directly
- Fecal tests to detect lungworm larvae
Treatment for Lungworm in Cats
Lungworm infections in cats are treatable with medications prescribed by a veterinarian. Treatment options may include oral or topical antiparasitic medications such as:
Most lungworm infections can be resolved with a single course of treatment, but severe cases may require multiple doses over up to two months. If your cat develops secondary respiratory conditions like pneumonia, your veterinarian may recommend extra medications to address these complications.
Preventing Lungworm Infections in Cats
The best way to protect your cat from lungworm infections is through preventive care:
- Limit your cat's outdoor access to reduce the risk of contact with infected animals such as rodents, birds, and snails.
- Use monthly parasite prevention treatments, such as Revolution
- Schedule regular veterinary wellness check-ups to monitor your cat’s health
Consistent prevention and early detection are key to keeping your cat safe from lungworms and ensuring their long-term health.
