How do I prevent a worm infection?

A worm infection in cats can have unpleasant consequences for your cat’s health and may also pose a risk to other animals and people. That’s why prevention is essential. With a combination of hygiene, regular fecal testing, and a few habits, you can minimize the risk of infection. We've listed some tips to help you take the best possible preventive action:

Clean the litter box regularly
Worm eggs and larvae are spread via feces. Scoop the litter box daily and clean it regularly with hot water and disinfectant to prevent (re)infection.
Prevent contamination from the environment
Cats can get worms by eating contaminated grass, soil, or small prey. Keep your garden clean and stay aware of infection risks if your cat roams outside the yard.
Be cautious with raw meat or organs
Some worm species are transmitted via raw meat or organs. It’s nearly impossible to check if the meat is parasite-free. Don’t feed raw meat unless it has been cooked above 70 °C or frozen below -12 °C.
Prevent fleas and lice
Tapeworms are transmitted via fleas and lice. Good flea prevention helps prevent worm infections. Treat your cat regularly and check its coat for fleas or flea dirt.
Ensure a clean environment
Wash your cat’s bedding, blankets,

Prevent your cat from drinking contaminated water
Some worms and parasites, such as Giardia, can be transmitted through contaminated water. Always provide clean drinking water and be aware that outdoor cats may drink from unsafe sources, increasing their risk of infection.
Have regular fecal testing done
By testing your cat’s feces four times a year, you can detect worm infections early. This allows for targeted treatment of specific worm species. Fecal testing helps avoid unnecessary deworming and contributes to reducing worm resistance.
New cat in the house? Test first
Cats from other environments may carry worms. Always test new cats before allowing contact with other animals. This prevents infections and protects the health of your new pet.
Maintain good personal hygiene
Wash your hands after contact with your cat, especially after cleaning up feces. This is especially important for children, who often put their hands in their mouths.
Test more often if your cat goes outside
Outdoor cats are exposed to many sources of infection. Therefore, test more frequently to keep worm control in check.

Want to be sure your cat is free of worms? Then have a fecal test done. Based on the results, we will provide a suitable treatment plan. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions — we’re happy to help!