Stomach Worm Infection, Ollulanosis (Parasitic Infection of the Stomach Caused by Ollulanus Species) in cats
- Occurrence: common
- Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis
Stomach worm infection, also known as Ollulanosis, is a parasitic disease of the stomach in cats caused by infestation with small roundworms of the genus Ollulanus.
The most important facts at a glance
Stomach worm infection in cats is caused by the microscopic roundworm Ollulanus tricuspis, which is widespread worldwide. The parasite lives in the cat’s stomach and causes damage to the gastric mucosa, as its life cycle takes place entirely there. The females of the parasite are viviparous and produce larvae that can develop directly into adult worms in the stomach. Infection usually occurs through swallowing vomit containing the parasites, which facilitates the spread within a cat population. Common symptoms include chronic vomiting, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Diagnosis is made by microscopic detection of the parasites in the vomit or endoscopic examinations. Antiparasitics such as fenbendazole or levamisole are used for treatment, and an adapted diet can support healing. With timely treatment, the prognosis is good, with regular veterinary monitoring being important to prevent relapses. Preventive measures include strict hygiene, avoidance of raw meat, and regular veterinary examinations as well as deworming treatments, especially for outdoor cats. These measures help to reduce the risk of infection and ensure the health of the cats.
Causes
Stomach worm infection in cats is caused by the parasite Ollulanus tricuspis, which is a microscopic roundworm. These parasites are widespread worldwide and particularly affect cats, but can also infest other animals. The parasite’s life cycle takes place entirely in the host’s stomach, which distinguishes it from many other parasitic worms that often require an intermediate host.
Ollulanus tricuspis lives in the stomach and causes damage to the gastric mucosa. These parasites are viviparous, meaning that the females produce live larvae that can develop directly into adult worms in the stomach. This allows rapid reproduction of the parasites without the need for an external developmental stage.
Infection usually occurs through swallowing vomit containing the larvae or adult worms. Since cats often eat their own vomit or that of other cats, the parasite can easily spread within a cat population.
Symptoms
The symptoms of stomach worm infection in cats can vary depending on the severity of the infestation. Common symptoms include repeated vomiting, which often occurs after eating. In many cases, vomiting can become chronic and lead to weight loss.
Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, lethargy, and dehydration. In severe cases, inflammation of the gastric mucosa can occur, which is known as gastritis. This can lead to pain and further discomfort for the affected cat.
Since the symptoms are non-specific, they can easily be confused with other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. An accurate diagnosis is therefore crucial for the correct treatment.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a stomach worm infection requires a thorough examination by a veterinarian. Due to the small size of the parasites, detection is often difficult. In many cases, a diagnosis is made by microscopic detection of the parasites in the vomit, as the worms are often visible there.
Another diagnostic procedure may be an endoscopic examination of the stomach, in which a camera is used to directly inspect the gastric mucosa and take samples for further examination. In some cases, blood tests may be performed to assess the cat’s general health.
Therapy
The treatment of stomach worm infection in cats is usually done with antiparasitics that are specifically effective against roundworms. Medications such as fenbendazole or levamisole are often used to eliminate the parasites.
In addition to drug treatment, it may be necessary to adjust the cat’s diet to support the healing of the gastric mucosa. In some cases, a special diet may be recommended that is easily digestible and gentle on the stomach.
It is important to carry out the treatment consistently and have the cat regularly monitored by a veterinarian to ensure that the infection is successfully controlled.
Prognosis and follow-up care
The prognosis for cats with a stomach worm infection is generally good if the disease is detected and treated early. Most cats recover completely from the infection, especially if treated in time.
In cases where the infection is not treated in time or the cat is already weakened, the prognosis may be worse. Chronic infections can lead to persistent stomach problems and a deterioration of the cat’s general condition.
Regular monitoring and aftercare by a veterinarian is important to prevent relapses and ensure the cat’s long-term health.
Prevention
To prevent stomach worm infection in cats, it is important to strictly adhere to hygiene measures. This includes regular cleaning and disinfection of food and water bowls, as well as the cat’s sleeping and resting places. The environment should be kept free of feces and vomit, as these parasites can be transmitted through the consumption of infected materials.
Another important measure is the control of feeding. Avoid giving your cat raw or undercooked meat, as this may potentially contain parasitic larvae. If you keep several cats, you should make sure that none of the cats show signs of infection before they come into contact with each other to prevent spread within the group.
Regular veterinary examinations are essential to detect a possible infection early and to be able to take countermeasures in time. Especially in the case of outdoor cats, which are exposed to a higher risk of infection, regular deworming treatments should be ensured. These should be carried out in consultation with the veterinarian at regular intervals to ensure that the cat remains free of parasites.
An interesting overview of gastrointestinal problems in cats, supplemented by information on the intestinal microbiome and the importance of probiotics, can be found here: https://petsvetcheck.de/fachbeitrag/magen-darm-probleme-bei-katzen/