What it is
Tapeworms (cestodes) are flatworms that live as adults in the small intestine of a host animal. In cats, the most commonly encountered species in the UK is Dipylidium caninum — the flea tapeworm. Less commonly, cats may carry Taenia taeniaeformis (from hunting rodents) and, in parts of continental Europe, Echinococcus multilocularis (from wild prey).
Adult tapeworms attach to the intestinal lining and absorb nutrients from the host. They can reach 20–70 cm in length, though the segments shed in the faeces are only a few millimetres. The worm itself is rarely seen whole.
How cats become infected
Flea ingestion
Flea larvae eat tapeworm eggs. When a cat grooms and swallows an infected adult flea, the tapeworm cycle begins. This is by far the most common route for Dipylidium caninum in domestic cats.
Prey animals
Cats that hunt and eat rodents, birds, or rabbits can ingest tapeworm larvae present in intermediate hosts. Taenia taeniaeformis is acquired this way.
Signs of tapeworm infection
Most infections are mild and cause few visible symptoms. The most commonly reported sign is seeing small, white, rice-like segments — detached proglottids containing eggs — near the cat's tail, in its bedding, or in fresh faeces. Fresh segments may move; dried ones resemble sesame seeds.
Heavy infections may cause:
- Weight loss despite normal appetite
- A dull, poor-condition coat
- Scooting or rubbing the hindquarters
- Visible worm segments in faeces or vomit (less common)
If you notice these signs, check our guide to signs it is time to call the vet to understand when to book an appointment.
Treatment
Praziquantel is the treatment of choice for Dipylidium caninum and Taenia species. It is available in tablet, spot-on (combined with flea treatment), or injectable form. A single dose is usually sufficient to kill the adult worms. Reinfection from fleas is the main treatment failure — without concurrent flea treatment, reinfestation typically occurs within weeks.
Treating the home environment is also important: flea larvae (the tapeworm intermediate host) develop in carpets, bedding, and furniture. A vet-recommended household flea spray should be used in all rooms the cat accesses.
Prevention
Year-round flea prevention is the most effective way to prevent Dipylidium caninum tapeworm reinfection. For cats that hunt, regular worming (every 1–3 months) is recommended by the ESCCAP guidelines — the European standard for companion animal parasite control. Discuss the right product and schedule with your vet at the next routine check-up.