Cats can get worms easily, especially if they go outdoors or eat raw meat. Worms can make your cat sick, causing problems like weight loss, diarrhea, and a dull coat. While vet-prescribed dewormers work well, some pet owners prefer natural remedies. This article explains safe, natural ways to help kill worms in cats.
Common Types of Worms in Cats
Before treating worms, it’s important to know which type your cat has. The most common worms in cats are:
1. Roundworms
Look like spaghetti
Found in intestines
Kittens often get them from their mother
2. Tapeworms
Flat, segmented worms
Spread through fleas or raw meat
Look like small rice grains near the cat’s tail
3. Hookworms
Small, thin worms
Attach to intestinal walls and feed on blood
Can cause anemia
4. Whipworms
Less common but dangerous
Live in the large intestine
Cause bloody diarrhea
Signs Your Cat Has Worms
Watch for these symptoms:
Visible worms in poop or vomit
Bloated belly (especially in kittens)
Diarrhea or bloody stool
Weight loss despite eating well
Scooting or licking the rear end
Dull, rough fur
If you see these signs, check with a vet before trying natural treatments. Severe worm infections need medical care.
Natural Ways to Kill Worms in Cats
Some natural remedies may help eliminate worms or support your cat’s health during treatment. Always consult a vet before using these methods.
1. Pumpkin Seeds
How it works:
Pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitacin, a compound that paralyzes worms, making them easier to pass.
How to use:
Grind raw pumpkin seeds into a powder.
Mix ¼ teaspoon per 10 lbs of body weight into your cat’s food.
Use for up to two weeks.
2. Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade)
How it works:
This fine powder dehydrates worms and parasites.
How to use:
Only use food-grade DE.
Mix ½ teaspoon into wet food daily for 10 days.
Ensure your cat drinks plenty of water.
Warning: Do not use pool-grade DE—it’s toxic!
3. Coconut Oil
How it works:
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which may help expel worms.
How to use:
Start with ¼ teaspoon daily.
Mix into food.
Can also improve coat health.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
How it works:
Creates an acidic environment in the gut that worms dislike.
How to use:
Add ½ teaspoon to your cat’s water bowl.
Use raw, unfiltered ACV.
Not all cats like the taste, so watch for rejection.
5. Garlic (In Very Small Amounts)
How it works:
Garlic has antiparasitic properties but must be used carefully.
How to use:
Only use a tiny amount (1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per day).
Never give raw garlic in large doses—it can be toxic.
Best used under vet supervision.
6. Carrots
How it works:
Grated carrots may help scrape worms from the intestines.
How to use:
Add a small amount to your cat’s food.
Too many carrots can cause digestive upset.
7. Chamomile Tea
How it works:
Soothes the digestive tract and may help with mild worm infections.
How to use:
Brew weak chamomile tea.
Cool and add a teaspoon to your cat’s water.
Preventing Worms Naturally
Prevention is better than cure. Here’s how to reduce the risk of worms:
1. Regular Flea Control
Fleas spread tapeworms.
Use natural flea repellents like cedar oil or flea combs.
2. Clean Litter Boxes Daily
Prevents worm eggs from spreading.
3. Avoid Raw Meat
Unless properly frozen first, raw meat can carry parasites.
4. Keep Your Cat Indoors
Reduces exposure to infected soil or prey.
5. Strengthen the Immune System
Feed a balanced diet with probiotics.
Ensure your cat stays hydrated.
When to See a Vet
Natural remedies can help, but some cases need medical treatment. See a vet if:
Your cat is very weak or vomiting worms.
There’s blood in the stool.
Home treatments don’t work after two weeks.
Your cat is a kitten or has other health issues.
Vets can prescribe safe, effective dewormers like pyrantel or fenbendazole.
Conclusion
Worms are a common problem for cats, but natural remedies may help in mild cases. Pumpkin seeds, diatomaceous earth, and coconut oil are some of the safest options. Always check with your vet before trying home treatments, especially for kittens or sick cats. Prevention is key—keeping your cat flea-free and indoors reduces worm risks. If symptoms persist, professional deworming is the best choice. A healthy diet and clean environment will help your cat stay worm-free and happy.
By using these natural methods wisely, you can support your cat’s health without always relying on chemicals. Remember, every cat is different, so what works for one may not work for another. Stay observant, and always prioritize your cat’s well-being.
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