Can you tell if your cats have parasites?

Philippines
August 28, 2011 9:05pm CST
My three cats always scratch their neck. Especially my two female cats. They often scratch their neck. I wonder if they have parasites. Can I give them anti-worm even if I am not sure if they have it or not? I know many of you would say send them to the vet. I don't have money to send them to the vet so even it's the best solution. I can't bring them their.
1 person likes this
3 responses
@LaDeBoheme (2004)
• United States
29 Aug 11
Maybe they have fleas. Scratching their necks is not a sign of worms. Worms are internal. Check their poop for worms.
• Philippines
29 Aug 11
I agree. I have had cats with fleas before. Oh how I hate cat fleas that fly and jump. Worms on the other hand are gross. I don't think I can muster the strength to check the cat poop for worms though, lol.
• Philippines
29 Aug 11
I see, Is there any powder I can use or put to them for the fleas to leave. I also can't even look at their poop. I don't wanna do it.
• United States
29 Aug 11
Ask whoever scoops the litter box to take a look at the poop, angelbelle. Also, to make sure it really is fleas, pick up one of your cats and examine their necks and bellies closer. You will be able to see fleas. It could just be an irritation. Do the cats wear collars? If your cats do indeed have fleas, than I highly recommend a topical application like Frontline. It is a capsule that you break open and apply directly to the skin between the cat's shoulder blades (the only place they can't reach to clean). You re-apply it every 30 days and the fleas will disappear from the cat and surroundings. It used to be that you could only get it from a vet, but you can now buy it online. Flea collars, powders, baths, and the like are only temporary measures. You have to make sure fleas and their eggs are eliminated totally or they will find their way back. And your cats will love you for it!
@watergirl (567)
• Philippines
29 Aug 11
I think scratching is a sign of cats having fleas and not worms so giving them anti-worm probably won't work. Try giving your cat anti fleas solutions like shampoo, powder or soap from the supermarket.
• Philippines
29 Aug 11
Maybe I'll buy some powder. They don't take a bath. . They don't like water and they are not use to it.
• Philippines
30 Aug 11
i do bathe my cats! Especially the younger ones and those that are long-haired.
@ElicBxn (63235)
• United States
29 Aug 11
I agree with the first responder, scratching isn't a sign of worms, but fleas... that's a whole other matter - I would investigate a good flea medicine - nothing you can buy at a grocery store maybe at a good pet store
• Philippines
29 Aug 11
Thanks! Yeah, I will look at the pet store for the medicine. thanks!