My Cat Has Worms. How Do I Clean My House?

Last updated: 11th Dec 2023

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When our beloved feline companions fall prey to unwanted parasites like worms, it poses health concerns for them. It raises questions about maintaining a clean and hygienic living space.

Worms are a common parasite that almost all cats will encounter at some point in their lifetime. The most prevalent intestinal worms to infect cats are roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. These parasitic worms live in the gastrointestinal tract, feeding on nutrients that pass through the cat. With hookworms, they connect to the intestinal wall and feed on the cat’s blood.

This article will answer, “When my cat has worms. How do I clean my house?” and help prevent them from returning.

How do cats get worms?

Each worm has its transmission mode, but all worms have evolved highly effective ways to infect their new host. Parasite eggs pass out of the body via the cat’s stool. From there, they have different modes of infection. Adult cats, especially those who hunt, are at increased risk. However, indoor cats can catch worms as eggs or infected cat fleas can be carried into the house on shoes or clothing.

If Cat Has Worms, How Do I Clean My House in 11 Steps?

Cleaning your home when your cats have worms is crucial to prevent further infestations and ensure a safe environment for your pets and family. Here's a step-by-step process to guide you through the cleaning procedure:

Step 1: Isolate and treat your cats

Separate the infected cats from healthy ones to prevent the spread of worms. Bring the infected cats to the vet for proper treatment, which may include deworming medication and follow their guidance for care.

If only one cat has worms, keep your cat isolated so that other pets are not affected.

Step 2: Gather cleaning supplies

Collect all the necessary cleaning supplies, including a steam cleaner, disinfectant cleaner, hot water, a bucket, cleaning cloths, bleach solution and trash bags. Wear rubber gloves and a face mask to minimize direct contact with potentially infectious materials.

Step 3: Remove and clean pet bedding

Wash all cat's bedding, including blankets, towels, and toys, in hot water with detergent. Dry them with heat to kill any remaining parasites. Using a disinfectant spray can also further prevent any more worm eggs.

Step 4: Vacuum thoroughly

Use a vacuum cleaner to thoroughly vacuum all carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and pet areas. Please pay special attention to areas where your cats spend most of their time.

Step 5: Steam clean carpets and furniture

Steam cleaning is a helpful way to kill parasites and their eggs without harsh chemicals. Following the manufacturer's instructions, use a steam cleaner on carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Mop hard floors

Clean hard floors, such as tile, laminate, or hardwood, with a disinfectant cleaner, bleach solution, and hot water. Make sure to clean any areas that your cats might have soiled.

Step 7: Disinfect surfaces

Wipe down all surfaces with a pet-safe disinfectant. Pay attention to areas your cats frequent, like litter boxes, feeding areas, and resting spots.

Step 8: Dispose of waste properly

Before discarding them in an outdoor trash bin, double-bag and seal all waste materials, including cat litter and disposable gloves.

Step 9: Wash your hands

After cleaning, remove your gloves and scrub your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Step 10: Follow-up care

Monitor your cats' health after treatment. Monitor their litter box and behavior for signs of re-infestation and consult with your veterinarian if any concerns arise.

Step 11: Prevention is key

To prevent future infestations, maintain a clean home and regularly deworm your cats as your veterinarian recommends.

Following this step-by-step approach, you can effectively clean your house when your cats have worms, providing a safe and healthy living environment for indoor cats and everyone.

Symptoms of worms in cats

Parasitic nematodes cause most cases of worms in cats. Multiple types of worms can infest cats, with various symptoms. Here are some of the most common.

It’s a common assumption that you’ll know if your cat has worms, as they’ll be visible in the stool. This is only true in very advanced cases of parasitism, however. Often the first signs that your cat has a problem can be changed in litter-box behavior and energy levels.

As we’ve already seen, a cat with worms can suffer from loose stools and vomiting. Other signs include lethargy and exhaustion, with previously lively cats slowing down and wanting to stay in one place most of the time.

How Are Worms Usually Treated?

Worms in cats are treated through a combination of deworming medications and supportive care. When a cat is diagnosed with worms, a vet will decide the type of worm infestation and prescribe the exact deworming medication best suited to combat the parasites.

These medicines come in varied forms, such as oral tablets or topical applications. They are designed to eradicate the worms from the cat's system. Depending on the harshness of the infestation, numerous rounds of treatment may be necessary.

By promptly seeking veterinary care and adhering to the prescribed treatment plan, pet owners can effectively rid their feline companions of worms, restoring their health and well-being.

FAQs

Can I touch my cat if it has worms?

You can touch your cat as long as they have been recently treated for worms and always wash your hands afterwards.

Can cat worms live in bedding?

Sacs containing viable eggs are seen clinging to the hairs surrounding a pet’s anus, in feces, or in locations where the creature sleeps, such as a human bed, meaning that cat worms may live in bedding.

If your cat has worms, they should not lie on your bed since worms might get into your bedding and create issues.

Can cats spread worms in the house?

Yes, cats can spread worms in the house. When a cat has worms, the parasites can pass via feces and contaminate the surrounding environment. This contamination can happen if the infected feline uses a litter box, defecates in the yard, or sheds worm eggs through its fur. Ensure clean litter as much as possible.

To prevent the spread of worms in the house, it’s essential to deworm your cats, as a veterinarian recommends regularly.

Additionally, practicing good hygiene, clean the litter boxes regularly, and promptly disposing of cat feces can help reduce the risk of worm contamination in the home.

If you suspect your cat has worms or notice any signs of infestation, consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.