Strongyloidiasis (Parasitic intestinal infection with threadworms, Strongyloides) in cats
- Occurrence: common
- Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis
When to visit the vet?
Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days
If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.
An interesting overview of gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. problems in cats, supplemented by information on the intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. microbiome and the importance of probiotics, can be found here: https://petsvetcheck.de/fachbeitrag/magen-darm-probleme-bei-katzen/
Definition
Strongyloidiasis is a parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. intestinal infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in cats caused by threadworms of the genus Strongyloides.
The most important facts at a glance
Strongyloidiasis in cats is an infection caused by microscopic threadworms that primarily occur in tropical and subtropical regions. These parasites live in the animals’ small intestineThe intestine is the medical term for the gut, including the small intestine (intestinum tenue) and the large intestine (intestinum crassum). It plays a central role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients., and infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. usually occurs through contact with contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. soil or water. The life cycle of Strongyloides includes parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. and free-living phases, with larvae able to penetrate the skin or be ingested oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally.. Once in the body, the larvae migrate to the lungs and mature there before reaching the small intestineThe intestine is the medical term for the gut, including the small intestine (intestinum tenue) and the large intestine (intestinum crassum). It plays a central role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.. Symptoms can include DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., Skin inflammation, and Cough. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made through microscopic examination of feces, serological tests, or endoscopyEndoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light source and a camera at the end) to examine and visualize the inside of the body, often for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes., but false-negative results can occur. Treatment involves anthelminticsAnthelmintics are medications used to treat worm infections in dogs and cats. They work by killing parasitic worms or promoting their expulsion from the body. There are various anthelmintics that are effective against specific types of worms, such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. The choice of the right anthelmintic depends on the type of worm infestation. such as Ivermectin or Fenbendazole and often requires a longer duration of therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. A clean environment is important to prevent reinfections. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is usually good with timely treatment; however, severe infections or immunocompromised cats may suffer complications. Preventive measures include regular deworming and keeping the cat’s environment clean. Research focuses on better diagnostic methods, new treatment approaches, and understanding the immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. of cats to develop vaccines in the long term.
Causes
Strongyloidiasis is caused by threadworms that primarily occur in tropical and subtropical regions. These parasites are microscopic and live in the small intestineThe intestine is the medical term for the gut, including the small intestine (intestinum tenue) and the large intestine (intestinum crassum). It plays a central role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. of cats. The infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. usually occurs through direct contact with contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. soil or water where the worm larvae are found.
The life cycle of Strongyloides is complex and includes both parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. and free-living phases. The larvae can penetrate the host’s skin or be ingested oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally.. Once in the body, they migrate via the bloodstream to the lungs, where they mature before reaching the small intestine to further develop and reproduce.
The adultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. worms lay eggs, which are excreted with the feces. Under favorable conditions, larvae develop from the eggs, which can either infect other animals or develop into free-living adults. This ability for autoinfection, meaning the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. of the host by its own offspring, distinguishes Strongyloides from many other parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. worms and can lead to chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. infections.
The risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and the severity of the disease depend on various factors, including the cat’s immunityImmunity is the body's ability to protect itself against infections, diseases, or foreign substances. It can be natural, as with innate immunity, or acquired, as with adaptive immunity, which develops after an infection or vaccination., environmental conditions, and the rate of exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. to contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. materials.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Strongyloidiasis in cats can vary depending on the severity of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and the cat’s general health status. Many cats show no obvious symptoms, especially in mild infections. However, in more severe cases or in young and immunocompromised cats, clear symptoms may appear.
The most common symptoms include diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., which is often bloody, weight loss, and loss of appetite. In addition, affected cats may exhibit vomiting and dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse.. Some cats also suffer from abdominalThe term “abdominal” refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain and may appear lethargic.
In severe cases, the entire digestive tract can be impaired, leading to poor nutrient absorptionAbsorption refers to the uptake of substances by living cells or tissues. In the context of veterinary medicine, it often refers to the absorption of nutrients, drugs, or toxins from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. and thus to deficiencyDeficiency means a lack or absence of a necessary substance required for normal bodily functions or health, such as vitamins, minerals, or hormones. symptoms. Long-term infections can also weaken the cat’s immune systemThe immune system is the body’s defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., making it more susceptible to other diseases.
Diagnosis
The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of Strongyloidiasis is usually made through a microscopic examination of the cat’s feces to detect the eggs or larvae of the worms. However, this method is not always reliable, as the excretion of eggs can be intermittentIntermittent refers to something that occurs at intervals or starts and stops temporarily, such as intermittent Pain that comes and goes.. Therefore, several samples over a certain period may be required to reliably confirm an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
In addition to fecal examination, a serological examination can also be helpful to detect antibodyAn antibody is a protein produced by the immune system to recognize and bind specific antigens. By binding to the antigen, antibodies can help destroy or neutralize it. against the parasites. However, these tests can sometimes yield false-negative results, especially in cats with a weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body..
In some cases, endoscopyEndoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light source and a camera at the end) to examine and visualize the inside of the body, often for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. may be required to visualize the worms directly in the intestineThe intestine is the medical term for the gut, including the small intestine (intestinum tenue) and the large intestine (intestinum crassum). It plays a central role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.. However, this method is usually only applied in severe infections or when other diagnostic techniques do not provide clear results.
Therapy
The treatment of Strongyloidiasis in cats usually involves the administration of anthelminticsAnthelmintics are medications used to treat worm infections in dogs and cats. They work by killing parasitic worms or promoting their expulsion from the body. There are various anthelmintics that are effective against specific types of worms, such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. The choice of the right anthelmintic depends on the type of worm infestation., i.e., medications specifically effective against parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. worms. Ivermectin and Fenbendazole are commonly used active ingredients that are effective against Strongyloides.
Treatment should be carried out over an extended period to ensure that all stages of the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. are killed, including larvae that may be located in various body regions. Regular follow-up examinations are important to monitor the success of the therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. and make adjustments if necessary.
In addition to medication, it is important that infected cats are kept in a clean environment to prevent reinfectionReinfection refers to the recurrence of an infection in an individual who was previously cured of the same disease. This can be caused by the same or a similar pathogen.. This includes regular cleaning of the litter box and the cat’s surroundings, as well as avoiding contact with contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. soil or water sources.
Prognosis and follow-up care
The prognosis for cats with Strongyloidiasis is generally good if the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is diagnosed and treated early. Most cats recover completely after adequate therapy with anthelminticsAnthelmintics are medications used to treat worm infections in dogs and cats. They work by killing parasitic worms or promoting their expulsion from the body. There are various anthelmintics that are effective against specific types of worms, such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. The choice of the right anthelmintic depends on the type of worm infestation.. However, severe infections or immunocompromised cats may experience complications requiring a longer treatment period or additional medical interventions.
Long-term infections can lead to a weakening of the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., making the cat more susceptible to other diseases. Therefore, it is important for cat owners to pay attention to possible symptoms and consult a veterinarian immediately if an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is suspected.
Prevention
To prevent a Strongyloides infection in cats, it is important to carry out regular deworming treatments. These should ideally take place in consultation with a veterinarian to ensure that the correct anthelmintic is used and the dosage is appropriate.
Another important preventive step is the cleanliness of the cat’s environment. Cat owners should ensure that the cat litter is changed regularly and that the area where the cat lives is kept clean and free of feces. This reduces the risk of the cat becoming reinfected or picking up the parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans..
It is also advisable to keep cats, especially if they go outdoors, away from potentially contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. soil. In addition, cats that have experienced an infection should be regularly checked for relapses, as Strongyloides can remain in the body in some cases.
Good general health care, including a balanced diet and regular veterinary check-ups, helps strengthen the cat’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., thereby reducing the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Finally, cat owners should ensure that new cats brought into the household are tested for parasites before they come into Contact with other pets.
Outlook on current research
Research on Strongyloidiasis in cats currently focuses on various aspects, including the identification and spread of pathogens, the development of more effective treatment methods, and the improvement of diagnostic techniques. A focus of current studies is on the molecular characterization of Strongyloides worms to better understand genetic diversity and identify potential weaknesses that could be used for therapeutic approaches. Researchers use modern genomic techniques to decipher the DNADNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for the development, function, and reproduction of all known living organisms and many viruses. It is located in the cells of an organism and contains the information for heredity. sequences of these parasites, which could help develop new drugs that specifically target genetic markers.
Another significant field of research is the investigation of the immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. of cats to the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Researchers are trying to find out how the cat’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. reacts to Strongyloidiasis and which factors promote a chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Understanding these mechanisms could ultimately lead to the development of vaccines that protect cats from infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Currently, studies are underway that deal with the role of immunomodulatorsImmunomodulators are substances that affect the immune system by increasing or decreasing its activity. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, or as cancer therapy. and the possible application of immunotherapies to strengthen the animals’ natural defenses.
Furthermore, scientists are investigating environmental influences and living conditions that increase the risk of Strongyloidiasis infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in cats. These studies aim to develop preventive measures that minimize the risk of contagion. This includes research on the preferred habitats of Strongyloides worms and their transmission routes. The results could help establish guidelines for the keeping and care of cats that significantly reduce the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
Another goal of research is the improvement of diagnostic methods. Currently available tests for the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of Strongyloidiasis have limitations in terms of sensitivity and accuracy. New studies focus on the development of rapid tests that are cost-effective and easy to use, while providing reliable results. These new diagnostic tools could enable early detection of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., which is crucial for effective treatment and preventing the spread of the disease.
Finally, research is also being conducted on the development of new treatment approaches. While conventional anthelminticsAnthelmintics are medications used to treat worm infections in dogs and cats. They work by killing parasitic worms or promoting their expulsion from the body. There are various anthelmintics that are effective against specific types of worms, such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. The choice of the right anthelmintic depends on the type of worm infestation., i.e., deworming agents, are used in the treatment of Strongyloidiasis, there is increasing research into alternative therapies. These include herbal remedies and combination therapies, which may have fewer side effects and can prevent resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins.. Research in this area is promising and could lead to new, more effective treatments in the future.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
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What is Strongyloidiasis in cats?
Strongyloidiasis is a parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in cats caused by roundworms of the genus Strongyloides. These worms infest the small intestineThe intestine is the medical term for the gut, including the small intestine (intestinum tenue) and the large intestine (intestinum crassum). It plays a central role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. of animals and can lead to various health problems. -
How do cats get infected with Strongyloidiasis?
Cats usually become infected through Contact with contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. soil or water containing Strongyloides worm larvae. The larvae can penetrate the body through the skin or be ingested through contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. material. -
What symptoms do cats show with an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.?
Symptoms can include Diarrhea, Vomiting, Weight loss, loss of appetite, and general weakness. In severe cases, dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. and anemia can occur. Some cats show no obvious symptoms but are still carriers of the parasites. -
How is the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. made?
DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made by detecting the worms or their eggs in the cat’s feces. Serological tests or molecular methods can also be used to confirm the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. -
How is Strongyloidiasis treated?
Treatment usually consists of administering anthelminticsAnthelmintics are medications used to treat worm infections in dogs and cats. They work by killing parasitic worms or promoting their expulsion from the body. There are various anthelmintics that are effective against specific types of worms, such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. The choice of the right anthelmintic depends on the type of worm infestation., medications that kill worms. It is important to carry out the treatment under veterinary supervision to ensure that all parasites are eliminated. -
Can humans get infected from cats?
Although Strongyloides worms can also cause infections in humans, transmission from cats to humans is rare. InfectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in humans usually occurs through direct Contact with contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. soil. -
How can infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. be prevented in cats?
Good hygiene, regular deworming, and avoiding Contact with potentially contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. soil or water sources can reduce the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Regular cleaning of the cat’s environment is also important. -
Are certain cat breeds more susceptible to the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.?
There is no evidence that certain cat breeds are more susceptible to Strongyloidiasis. The risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. depends more on living conditions and exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. to contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. environments. -
How is a chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. treated?
ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. infections often require longer or repeated treatment with anthelminticsAnthelmintics are medications used to treat worm infections in dogs and cats. They work by killing parasitic worms or promoting their expulsion from the body. There are various anthelmintics that are effective against specific types of worms, such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. The choice of the right anthelmintic depends on the type of worm infestation.. In some cases, supporting the cat’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. may also be necessary. A veterinarian should monitor and adjust the treatment. -
What should I do if I suspect that my cat is infected?
If you suspect your cat is infected, you should consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment are important to avoid serious health problems and prevent the spread of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..