If your cat is having difficulty breathing and experiencing coughing fits, lungworms could potentially be the cause. Although lungworms are relatively uncommon in cats compared to intestinal parasites, if they're contracted, they can negatively impact your cat's health. Therefore, it's important to understand what these microscopic invaders do. Read on to learn more about what lungworms are and what cat lungworm treatment would consist of.
Understanding Lungworms in Cats
According to CriticalCareDVM, lungworms are parasites that live in and negatively impact the respiratory system of cats. Roundworms are the most common type of lungworm seen in cats, the two main species seen being Eucoleus aerophilus and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus.
- Eucoleus aerophilus: This species lives in the windpipe (trachea) and large airways. Cats become infected with Eucoleus aerophilus by accidentally consuming parasitic eggs or larvae.
- Aelurostrongylus abstrusus: This species lives in the lungs, and it can infect cats if they have eaten a bird, rodent, frog or lizard that has recently eaten a snail or slug that contains the worms.
When a cat ingests the larval or egg stage of a worm, the larva develops in the intestine, migrates out of the intestines through the bloodstream and travels to the lungs, where it develops into an adult and lays more eggs. The eggs then hatch into larvae which are coughed up, swallowed and passed out in the feces where they are eaten by snails and slugs, and the cycle starts all over again.
Cats that hunt or scavenge, roam freely or live in multi-animal households are at higher risk for contracting lungworms than other cats.
Identifying the Clinical Signs
Clinical signs of lungworms in cats are usually related to the respiratory tract and associated with bronchitis or pneumonia. Some of these signs may include:
- Coughing (which may look like retching or attempting to vomit)
- Fast or abnormal breathing patterns
- Pale gums
- Wheezing
- Nasal discharge
- Increased sleep
- Decreased energy
- Decreased appetite
You may also find your cat hiding more, grooming less, or not wanting to jump or play like they normally do. In some cases, lungworms in cats may cause no signs at all and may only be diagnosed during a routine annual fecal exam by your veterinarian.
Tasty Tips
Diagnosing Lungworms in Cats
If your cat has any of the signs listed above, contact your vet to have your cat examined. It is likely that your vet will want a sample of your cat's feces so that it can be checked for worm eggs or larvae.
Your vet will conduct a full physical examination, and depending on what they learn, they may then recommend additional testing, which can include fecal exams to look for parasites or eggs, bloodwork to check for signs of infection and an evaluation of internal organ function.
In some cases, additional testing may be necessary to perform an inspection of the airways with a video camera (endoscopy), testing a sample of fluid from the lungs and following up with chest X-rays. Diagnosing a lungworm infection can be challenging for your vet because lungworms rarely shed their eggs in feces; therefore, patience and multiple fecal exams may be required.
A diagnosis of lungworms in cats is neither a life-threatening nor contagious situation. Because of this, cats that are suspected to have a lungworm infection are usually treated as outpatients. Still, it's recommended that you wear gloves while cleaning their litter box until your vet gives you the all-clear.
Cat Lungworm Treatment and Prevention
Treatment for lungworms is two-fold: Support the cat while they heal, and eliminate the parasite. Ivermectin and fenbendazole are the most common medications used to treat lungworms in cats. Topical treatments with selamectin have also been used. When treating a cat for lungworms, patience is advised. It may require up to two months of treatment to completely eliminate the infection.
If your cat has lungworms, the prognosis with treatment is usually excellent; however, the prognosis depends on the amount of damage done to the lungs as well as the age and health history of the cat. Kittens and cats with compromised immune systems are at the highest risk for developing issues with a lungworm infection, and chronic infections can cause significant inflammation in the lungs, leading to irreversible damage. To enable a full recovery, have your cat treated early.
The best way to prevent lungworms in cats is to prevent your cat from hunting or scavenging. If that's not possible, then having your cat's feces checked every six months for parasites is a good alternative. Otherwise, speak to your vet about other preventive measures to keep your cat free from internal parasites.
While lungworms can be difficult to treat, the good news is that they are relatively rare, and by working with your vet, you can maximize your cat's health and well-being — all while keeping them free of parasites.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Vegetable & Turkey Medley Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Cat Food
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Dinner Pouch Variety Pack Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Salmon & Vegetable Medley Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory salmon and vegetables
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Vegetables Stew Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Liver & Chicken Entrée
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in indoor cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Turkey Entrée Cat Food
Delicious taste of gourmet minced turkey in precisely balanced nutrition. Provide a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity level.
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Tender Chicken Dinner
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Ocean Fish & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports the developmental needs of kittens to help start life with healthy growth and a strong immune system
Hill's Science Diet Adult Multiple Benefit Chicken Recipe cat food
Supports ideal body weight for cats with different body types
Hill's Science Diet Adult Urinary Hairball Control Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports the health of the whole urinary system with optimal levels of magnesium
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Beef Entrée Cat Food
Delicious taste of gourmet minced beef in precisely balanced nutrition. Provides a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity level.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Ocean Fish Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory minced seafood
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Seared Tuna & Carrot Medley Cat Food
Delicious seared tuna paired with tender carrots in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Salmon Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of savory minced salmon to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Chicken Recipe
Supports the developmental needs of kittens to help start life with healthy growth and a strong immune system.ain, eye & immune system development
Related articles
Do Cats Like Music?
Have you ever wondered if cat's like music? And if so, what kind? Check out this article that digs into the science behind your cat's taste in music.
Getting Your Cat Into Her Carrier
Getting your cat in & out of her carrier can be a challenging task when it's time to go to the vet. Learn helpful carrier tips for keeping your cat calm.
When Does a Cat's Play Aggression Cross the Line?
Learn tips for identifying and minimizing overly aggressive play cats, such as adopting positive play techniques with your feline friend.
Cat Play: How to Keep Your Kitty Engaged
Keep your cat both mentally and physically active with these fun tips for play and exercise even when you're not home.
Cat Zoomies: Why Your Cat Gets Them & When to Call the Vet
Learn why your kitty gets cat zoomies, random bouts of energy that cause them to race through the house, and when zoomies could indicate a health issue.
Cat Ear Infections: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention
Learn about common causes, signs & symptoms, and treatment of a cat ear infection, as well as tips for how to prevent them from happening.
Why Do Cats Try to Eat Plastic?
You may wonder why your cat loves chewing & eating all kinds of plastic. Find out why she's fascinated by these items and what you can do to discourage it.
A Guide to Trimming Cat Claws
Learn helpful tips for trimming your cat's claws, including nail clippers you'll need and how short you should trim her claws.
Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?
Learn the actual reasons why cats have whiskers, why they are important & how many whiskers cats usually have, and if they grow back when they fall out.
PU Surgery in Cats: What You Need to Know
Learn important information about a perineal urethrostomy, or PU surgery in cats, including reasons the procedure & how it helps with urinary blockages.
Mixing Cats and Holidays: Tips for a Safe Season
Learn fun ways to involve your cat in this holiday season, from preparing your house for holiday guests to participation in holiday traditions.
The Changing Needs of a Kitten Becoming a Cat
Learn the needs of your aging kitten. It's nutritional and exercise requirements will start to change as it grows from being a kitten into an adult cat.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Cats: Signs & Prevention
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Cats: Signs & Prevention
Meal Feeding vs. Free Feeding Cats: What's Best?
Curious if your cat can eat on her own schedule? Learn about free feeding, how it can impact your cat's diet, and if this method is a good fit for her.
Signs of a Rabid Cat and What to Do If Your Pet Is Exposed
Learn important information about rabies in cats, including how it's transmitted, common signs of infection and steps for preventing infection in your cat.
What to Expect at Your Kitten's 6-Month Health Check
We advise a 6-month health check up for any new kitten to ensure it's in good health condition. Read more about what to expect at your visit.
Dealing with a Cat That's a Picky Eater
Cats are notoriously picky eaters, but there are ways you can encourage her to eat her food. Discover some tips for getting her past her picky habits.
Feline Idiopathic Cystitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Learn about feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), which causes lower urinary tract problems in cats, including risk factors, symptoms & treatment options.
My Cat Ate String: Dangers, What to Do & Treatments
Discover health issues that can occur if your cat eats string, what you should do if you're sure they did, and possible treatments your vet might suggest.
Cat Parents: Bringing Your New Cat Home
Discover ten ways to care for your new cat after adoption, from preparing your home before she arrives to making her feel comfortable once she's arrived.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.