Cats get tapeworms primarily by ingesting infected fleas while grooming themselves. Flea larvae consume tapeworm eggs, and when cats swallow these infected fleas, the tapeworm larvae develop into adult tapeworms inside their intestines. Additionally, cats can contract tapeworms by hunting and eating infected rodents, birds, or other prey, as well as by consuming raw or undercooked meat that carries the parasite. Tapeworm larvae must first pass through an intermediate host such as fleas or rodents before infecting the cat's intestines.
The most common tapeworm species in cats is Dipylidium caninum, which is transmitted through fleas. Other species, such as Taenia, infect cats through predation on rodents or other small animals. Flea infestations greatly increase the risk of tapeworm infection, so flea control is essential to prevention.
In summary, cats get tapeworms mainly by:
- Swallowing infected fleas during grooming
- Eating infected rodents or other small prey
- Consuming raw or undercooked meat carrying tapeworm larvae
Preventing flea infestations and controlling rodent exposure are key to avoiding tapeworm infections in cats.
