Can I Get Worms From My Cat Sleeping in My Bed? It’s always a huge risk to fall asleep with a cat. Cats can give their owners ringworm, ear infections, and even tapeworms. If you really like your pet, then this article is for you. Otherwise, it’s just downright scary!
It’s no secret that cats like to sleep in our beds. But is it safe for us? Some might worry about getting worms from their cat, but fortunately, that’s unlikely. Here’s what you need to know about the risks of your cat sleeping in your bed.
Can You Sleep With A Cat With Worms?
Yes, you can. In fact, you may be wondering if it’s safe to sleep with your cat which is infected with worms. The answer to this question largely depends on the type of worms your cat has. There are three common parasites that can infect cats, and each has its own risk factors.
- Roundworm: Roundworms are the most common parasite of cats. They’re tape-like creatures that can be found in soil and dirt. They live inside your cat’s intestine, where they grow and make your cat infested with them. This type of parasite doesn’t pose a risk to humans.
- Tapeworm: Tapeworms are long, flat parasites that are often segmented. They’re usually only found in dogs and cats. Tapeworms infect your cat’s intestinal wall, where they grow and release eggs, which can hatch into more tapeworms when eaten by other animals or humans.
- Hookworm: Like roundworms, hookworms are tape-like parasites that live in your cat’s intestines. But hookworms have a whip-like tail and infect the muscles of your cat’s small intestine. This can make it painful for your cat to eat or drink. Hookworms are not often fatal to cats, but if they’re eating poorly and losing weight, then it could be an indication that hookworm is present.
If you do have a cat with worms, it’s still safe to sleep with them.
Can I Get Worms From My Cat Sleeping in My Bed?
Yes, you can get worms from your cat sleeping in your bed. These worms can be passed onto humans through fleas that are on your cat and then on to you.
If you are concerned about this, there are several steps you can take to prevent the worm from getting into your bed. First, choose a different bedding option like an air mattress or using a bed cover.
Second, ask your veterinarian if they have any recommendations on how to keep your cat away from your bed at night. Finally, if you have a black or brown cat, it’s best to keep them away from your bed. Black cats are more likely to have parasites than other cats, so keeping them away is important.
Is It Safe To Sleep With A Cat That Is Pregnant?
Whether it’s safe to sleep with a pregnant cat depends on the species of cat and the gestation period. If the cat is a domestic shorthair (Felis catus), then it’s generally safe throughout the entire pregnancy.
For other species of cats, you should be careful at specific points in the pregnancy. Domestic shorthairs generally won’t have trouble sleeping with you during the early stages of pregnancy. But when the cat is about 8 to 12 weeks pregnant, it’s important that they don’t get too comfortable in your bed. The best way to prevent problems during this time is to provide them with a comfortable place to sleep like a cat bed or similar bedding.
How Do Cats Get Worms?
Worms can be a problem for both cats and their owners. Luckily, there are things you can do to prevent your cat from getting worms. But how do they get them in the first place? Here’s how:
- Licking objects that have touched feces.
- Contact with fecal matter during feeding.
- Eating food that has been infested with larvae.
- Contamination of the environment.
- Direct contact with infected animals. And don’t forget to wash your hands after handling contaminated objects.
How to Tell If Your Cat Has Worms: 5 Signs Your Cat May Have Worms
It’s not always easy to tell if your cat has worms. Luckily, there are some signs that you can look out for that will help you know if they need medical attention or not.
Whether it’s during a fast or a regular diet, it’s not uncommon for cats to lose weight. This is normal, and it shouldn’t be cause for alarm if your cat starts losing weight.
But if you notice that your cat is losing weight when they aren’t doing anything unusual, then you should contact your veterinarian. The following are five signs your cat may have worms:
- Loss of Appetite/Thirst
- Bad Breath
- Excessive drinking or urinating
- Constant scratching
- Weight loss with little appetite.
How to Treat and Prevent Worms in Cats: 5 Ways to Keep Your Cat Healthy
There are several ways you can help prevent your cat from getting worms. And if they already have them, there are things you can do to treat them and make them feel better. Here are five ways to keep your cat healthy:
- Provide a litter box with a top. This will prevent your cat from digging and getting worms.
- Provide plenty of toys and activities to keep them occupied. This will help keep their mind off of the pain.
- Keep their food and water bowls clean. This will help prevent your cat from eating things it shouldn’t.
- Brush your cat regularly to remove any mats or dirt that can hide worms.
- Check your cat’s ears and remove any dirt or debris that may be in there. This can cause an infection. And don’t forget to wash your hands after touching your cat.
How Do You Treat Worms in a Cat?
If you think that your cat has worms, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian. They can perform a health check and treat your cat with appropriate medication. If your cat already has worms, then there are several things you can do at home to make them feel better. And here are some tips:
- Give your cat medication orally or via injection.
- Apply essential oils to the affected area.
- Provide anti-parasitic medication.
- Provide heat to the area by using a warm water bottle or heating pad.
- Use compresses and moisturizes the skin. Some of these options may help, but your cat will still need to go to the veterinarian if they have internal problems.
- Keep your cat quiet during the initial treatment process.
- Offer your cat plenty of distractions such as toys and playtime to help them feel better as soon as possible.
How to Deworm a Cat: 5 Steps to Keep Your Cat Healthy
Deworming your cat can be a tricky process. But it’s important to do so regularly to prevent them from getting sick. Here are five steps to help you deworm your cat:
- Pick the right dewormer for your cat. This will depend on the type of worms that your cat has and how often they need to be treated. Some may only need to be treated once, while others may need to be treated every week or two.
- Administer the dewormer as directed. Follow the directions on the label carefully. Don’t deviate from them unless directed to do so by your veterinarian.
- Wait 24 hours before you give your cat the next dose.
- Once a month, deworm your cat again.
- Visit your veterinarian at least once every year to check for worms and prevent any new ones from developing.
Conclusion: Can I Get Worms From My Cat Sleeping in My Bed?
Not all worms are harmful to cats. However, there are some that can be serious and even fatal. Fortunately, they are uncommon. If you suspect that your cat has a parasite, talk to your veterinarian. He or she will be able to tell you what you should do and if your cat should be treated right away or if they should go to the emergency room. It’s also important to remember that it’s easy for worms to spread to other animals in your home including dogs and children.
FAQ
Q: Is it possible to contract worms from my cat if they sleep in my bed?
A: Yes, it is possible to contract worms from your cat if they are infected with parasites and sleep in your bed. Parasite eggs can be present on your cat’s fur or in their feces, and they may contaminate your bedding or living environment. However, maintaining good hygiene and ensuring your cat receives regular deworming treatments can help minimize the risk.
Q: What types of worms can humans get from cats?
A: The most common worms that humans can contract from cats are roundworms and hookworms. These parasites can cause various health issues in humans, such as cutaneous larva migrans (skin infection) and, in rare cases, more serious conditions like visceral larva migrans (organ infection).
Q: How can I prevent worms from spreading from my cat to me?
A: To prevent worms from spreading from your cat to you, ensure your cat receives regular deworming treatments and veterinary checkups. Keep your cat’s living environment clean, dispose of feces promptly, and practice good hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly after handling your cat or cleaning their litter box.
Q: Can I still allow my cat to sleep in my bed if they have been dewormed?
A: If your cat has been dewormed and is up to date on their veterinary checkups, the risk of contracting worms is significantly reduced. However, it is still important to maintain good hygiene practices and monitor your cat for any signs of a worm infestation.
Q: What are the signs of a worm infestation in cats?
A: Signs of a worm infestation in cats may include weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, a bloated or potbellied appearance, coughing, lethargy, and visible worms or worm segments in their feces or near their anus.
Q: If I suspect my cat has worms, what should I do?
A: If you suspect your cat has worms, consult your veterinarian for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They will likely recommend a fecal exam and prescribe a deworming medication to eliminate the parasites.
Q: Can I get worms from my cat if I don’t touch them?
A: The risk of contracting worms from your cat without direct contact is lower, but it is still possible if parasite eggs are present in your living environment, such as on bedding or furniture. Maintaining a clean home, disposing of cat feces promptly, and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the risk of infection.
Q: Can I kiss my cat if he has worms?
A: It is generally not recommended to kiss your cat if they have worms, as there is a risk of transmission, especially if they have recently groomed themselves or have fecal matter on their fur. While the risk may be relatively low, it is best to avoid close contact with your cat’s mouth, face, or fur until they have been properly treated for worms. Maintain good hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly after handling your cat and follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for deworming and follow-up care.
Q: How do you know if you get worms from a cat?
A: If you suspect you have contracted worms from a cat, you may experience various symptoms depending on the type of worm involved. Common symptoms associated with roundworm and hookworm infections include:
- Itchy, red, or irritated skin: This can occur due to cutaneous larva migrans, where the larvae of certain worms migrate through the skin, causing an inflammatory reaction.
- Abdominal pain, bloating, or discomfort: These symptoms may indicate the presence of worms in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea: These symptoms can occur in cases of gastrointestinal worm infestations.
- Unexplained weight loss: Some worm infestations can lead to malnutrition and weight loss.
In rare cases, more serious conditions such as visceral larva migrans may develop, which can cause symptoms related to organ damage, including fever, cough, muscle aches, and eye or neurological issues.
Q: What to do if cat worms get on bedding?
A: If you discover cat worms or worm segments on your bedding, it’s important to clean and sanitize the area to prevent the spread of parasites. Follow these steps to properly clean your bedding:
- Remove all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress covers.
- Wash the bedding in hot water (at least 140°F or 60°C) using a detergent. This temperature will help kill worm eggs and larvae. If possible, add bleach to the laundry for additional disinfection.
- Dry the bedding on the highest heat setting in the dryer, or hang it outside in direct sunlight, as the sun’s UV rays can also help kill parasites.
- Vacuum your mattress, paying special attention to seams and crevices where eggs or larvae may be hiding. Dispose of the vacuum cleaner bag or empty the canister outside to prevent reinfestation.
- Consider using a handheld steam cleaner on your mattress for additional disinfection, as the heat can help kill any remaining parasites.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling potentially contaminated bedding.
- Consult with your veterinarian to get your cat treated for worms, and follow their recommendations for preventing future infestations.
Q: Do most people get worms from petting their cat and sleeping in the same bed as them?
A: While it is possible to contract worms from petting your cat or sharing a bed with them, most people do not get worms this way, especially if they practice good hygiene and take proper care of their cat. The risk of contracting worms from your cat increases if the cat is infected with parasites and if proper hygiene measures are not followed.
Q: My cat has tapeworms but sleeps on my bed with me. Is it safe to sleep on my bed?
A: If your cat has tapeworms, it’s best to take precautions to minimize the risk of transmission. While the risk of contracting tapeworms from your cat is relatively low, it is still possible if tapeworm eggs or segments are transferred to your bedding and then accidentally ingested by you.
Q: Should I worry about getting worms from my indoor cats?
A: While the risk of getting worms from indoor cats is generally lower than from outdoor cats, it is still possible for indoor cats to contract parasites. Indoor cats can be exposed to worms through various means, such as infected fleas, rodents, or contaminated soil brought inside.
Q: Can I touch my cat if it has worms?
A: Yes, you can touch your cat if it has worms, but it is important to practice good hygiene to minimize the risk of transmission. The risk of contracting worms from touching your cat is relatively low, but it is still important to be cautious, especially if your cat has recently groomed themselves or has fecal matter on their fur.
Q: My cat has worms. Do I need to treat myself?
A: If your cat has worms, it is not necessary to treat yourself preemptively. However, it is essential to practice good hygiene and monitor your own health for any signs of a worm infestation. If you suspect that you have contracted worms from your cat, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Further Reading:
Rottweiler: Every Information You Need to Know About This Dog
Rhodesian Ridgeback: The Lion Fighter
1000 Interesting Dog Names and their Meaning
Cane Corso: Every Information About This Breed
Golden Retriever: Everything You Need To Know About This Breed
Can Dogs Eat Bread? Read This Before Feeding It To Them
Can Dog Eat Pineapple? Pineapple, the Fruit vs Pineapple, the Treat
Can Dog Have Beef Jerky? The Truth About This Healthy Snack
Can Dog Have Broccoli? – Everything You Need to Know
Can Dogs Eat Eggplant? The Truth, Explained
Can Dog Eat Eggs – Everything You Need to Know About Eggs and Your Dog
