Home Remedies for Treating a Cat With Worms

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A small bowl filled with pumpkin seeds.
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According to Ron Hines, doctor of veterinary medicine, in his article, "Intestinal Parasites In Your Cat And What To Do About Them," intestinal parasites are common in cats. In fact, low level exposure to parasites is how cats build up an immunity over time and healthy adult cats usually are capable of ridding themselves of parasites. Kittens often have mild parasitic infestations, enabling them some resistance as they grow. However, young kittens often become ill as they don't have a mature enough digestive system to fight off the invaders. Keep in mind that out-of-control parasitic infestations require conventional treatments from a vet. If home remedies aren't working, don't wait to consult a professional.

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Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth

The website, healthresearchfunding.org suggests mixing 2 teaspoons of food grade diatomaceous earth into the cat's food. The site recommends using this treatment for a month to eliminate the intestinal parasites, but it should be known that if it takes longer than that, the treatment likely isn't working and a vet should be consulted. Dusting the cat's coat with food grade diatomaceous earth once a week helps kill fleas that may cause another infestation of the parasites.

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Ground, Raw Pumpkin Seed

The healthresearchfunding.org site also suggests giving your cat a teaspoon of ground, raw pumpkin seed in her wet cat food as these seeds have anti-parasitic nutrients. It's important to take your cat to the vet before considering using a home remedy. A professional can tell what type of parasite is involved, how best to treat it and at what dosage, since not all dosages work best for all cats.

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Natural Herbal Remedies and Digestive Enzymes

Gary Le Mon, certified by the American Naturopathic Medical Certification Board, as a master herbalist, in his article, "Nontoxic Worm Remedies for Dogs and Cats," suggests giving your cat the natural herbal parasitic cleansers, cloves and neem. Le Mon recommends reading "Whole Health for Happy Cats" by Sandy Arora, who suggests giving the cat ground up pumpkin seeds, pureed carrots, as well as the digestive enzymes bromelain and papain.

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Good Hygiene Habits

Gary Le Mon, in his article, "Natural Worm Treatment for Cats," suggests that daily removal of cat feces, with regular cleaning of litter boxes helps prevent and clear out intestinal parasites. Responsible pet owners should develop good pet hygiene habits for this reason. Also, keeping your cat indoors lowers, but doesn't completely eliminate, her risk of acquiring parasites from hunting around in the grass and soil.

Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.

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