What is Ancylostoma?
Ancylostoma tubaeforme is an intestinal parasite affecting cats. Commonly known as “hookworm,” it derives its name from its distinctive shape. Hookworms attach themselves to the small intestine’s lining, feeding on their host’s blood.
How Do Cats Contract Ancylostoma?
Cats can become infected in three main ways:
- Skin penetration by larvae, the most common infection route;
- Consuming contaminated colostrum or mother’s milk, primarily affecting kittens;
- Ingesting infectious larvae present in water, food, or prey (e.g., mice and birds).
Life Cycle of the Parasite
Adult hookworms, which can live up to 18 months, produce eggs expelled in the cat’s feces. These eggs hatch within one or two days, releasing larvae that feed on organic matter and become infectious within five days.
Larvae can either be directly ingested or penetrate the cat’s skin. When penetrating the skin, larvae travel via the bloodstream to the lungs, migrate up to the pharynx, are swallowed, and reach the small intestine. The complete parasitic cycle lasts between two and three weeks.
Symptoms and Clinical Signs of Ancylostoma in Cats
Ancylostoma infection is often asymptomatic, but some cats may exhibit:
- Diarrhea or constipation, sometimes with black stools due to digested blood;
- Anemia, noticeable through pale mucous membranes and weakness;
- Weight loss and reduced appetite;
- Dry cough from larvae migrating to the lungs.
Severe infestations can cause intestinal hemorrhaging, potentially leading to sudden death.
Is Ancylostoma Contagious to Humans?
Yes, humans can contract this parasite through direct skin contact with infectious larvae in the soil, resulting in cutaneous larva migrans, characterized by itchy, inflamed skin lesions.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is confirmed via microscopic fecal examination. Several safe and effective antiparasitic medications, available by veterinary prescription, effectively treat this infection.
Preventing Ancylostoma Infection in Cats
Essential preventive measures include:
- Prompt removal of cat feces to reduce environmental contamination with infectious eggs;
- Wearing gloves when handling feces and thorough handwashing afterward;
- Properly washing garden vegetables before consumption to prevent contamination;
- Administering monthly preventive antiparasitic treatments to outdoor cats from spring through autumn.
Conclusion
Ancylostoma is an intestinal parasite potentially dangerous to cats and transmissible to humans. Fortunately, prevention and appropriate treatments effectively protect your pet. Consult your veterinarian to learn more about the best antiparasitic solutions for your cat.
