Hookworms

A nasty parasite, they can also infect humans.

Question:

What causes hookworms and what are the symptoms?  Can my kitten be reinfested with them? (She is strictly an indoor cat.)

Dr. Nichol:

Hookworms are passed between cats and dogs by microscopic eggs and through the skin. They bite into the inside wall of the intestine and suck blood. They cause weight loss, diarrhea, and anemia. If you fail to dump out your cat’s litter pan after every use your girl can become reinfected as you give her the medication to eliminate those worms. The good news is that your veterinarian can make short work of them.

Human infection: More folks are getting roundworms and hookworms from their pets. These parasites are the greatest risk to first trimester unborn children, diabetics, the elderly, cancer patients, and those with HIV. To prevent risk to humans every pet should have an annual stool exam.