Cat Nematodes Overview

Nematodes of Cats

In the UK, the only nematodes commonly found are Toxocara cati and, to a lesser extent, Toxascaris leonina. Hookworm infections are reported on rare occasions, but it is not known which species this is. The metastrongyloid lungworm of cats, Aelurostrongylus, can be problematic as the prognosis is guarded once clinical signs appear. Overseas, cats have their own species of hookworm and whipworm, and may be at risk from canine heartworm in highly endemic areas.


Small Intestine Caecum Lungs Heart
  • (Ancylostoma spp.)

NB Cats are abnormal hosts for this nematode