Intestinal roundworms and tapeworms cause welfare compromise in cats, particularly kittens. Regular treatment prevents the health and welfare effects of parasitic infections.
Intestinal worm infestations cause welfare compromise through nutrient competition reducing cat condition, gastrointestinal inflammation causing vomiting and diarrhoea, and in heavy infestations causing intestinal obstruction. Kittens are most severely affected as they lack acquired immunity. Regular appropriate anthelmintic treatment, integrated with comprehensive flea control to break the Dipylidium lifecycle, prevents welfare harm from parasitic infections. Using appropriate licensed veterinary products rather than unregulated over-the-counter alternatives ensures effective treatment.