Roundworms in Cat Poop: What It Means
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Roundworms in cat poop appear as long, round, spaghetti-like worms that may be white or light brown.
Updated: 2026-07-31
Quick Answer
Long, round, spaghetti-like worms in cat poop may be roundworms, common intestinal parasites in cats, especially kittens. However, a photo cannot confirm the parasite type. If you see worms in your cat's stool, contact a veterinarian for a fecal exam and appropriate treatment. Do not attempt to treat with over-the-counter products without veterinary guidance.
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What This May Mean
Roundworms in cat poop appear as long, round, spaghetti-like worms that may be white or light brown. Roundworms are common intestinal parasites in cats, particularly kittens. Adult roundworms live in the small intestine and can sometimes be seen in vomit or stool. However, a photo cannot confirm the type of worm, and a veterinarian should perform a fecal exam for definitive identification.
Cats are obligate carnivores, and their stool reflects diet, hydration, and digestive health. Because most cats use litter boxes, owners have a regular opportunity to observe stool color, consistency, and frequency. Changes in litter box habits or stool appearance can sometimes be the first sign of a health issue, which is why paying attention to what is normal for your cat is important.
Possible Causes
Several factors may contribute to this stool appearance in cats. A veterinarian can help determine which are relevant for your cat.
- Roundworm infection (toxocariasis), which cats can acquire from their mother, infected prey, or contaminated environments
- Ingestion of roundworm eggs from soil, feces, or infected intermediate hosts
- Kittens can acquire roundworms from their mother during nursing or before birth
- Hunting and eating infected rodents or birds that carry roundworm larvae
- Environmental exposure to contaminated soil or feces in outdoor or multi-cat settings
Keep in mind that stool changes can result from more than one factor at the same time. A veterinarian can perform a physical exam, fecal testing, blood work, or imaging to narrow down the cause. Avoid making assumptions based on appearance alone, since different conditions can produce similar stool changes.
Home Observation
When monitoring this change at home, the following details can help you and your veterinarian assess the situation:
Note the size, shape, color, and number of worms visible. Check for other signs including a pot-bellied appearance (especially in kittens), vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, dull coat, or appetite changes. Record when you first noticed the worms and whether this is the first occurrence. Take a photo if possible.
Litter Box Monitoring Tips
- Scoop the litter box at least once daily so you can notice changes promptly
- Note the number of stool clumps, their size, color, and consistency each day
- Take a clear photo of unusual stool so you can show your veterinarian
- Track whether your cat is spending more or less time in the litter box than usual
- Keep a simple log of dates, dietary changes, and any other symptoms
When to Contact a Veterinarian
Contact a veterinarian if you see worms in your cat's stool. A veterinarian can perform a fecal exam to identify the parasite type and recommend appropriate deworming treatment. Kittens with roundworms should be evaluated promptly, as heavy infections can cause poor growth and digestive issues.
Signs that warrant urgent veterinary attention include:
- Large amounts of blood in the stool or dark, tarry stool
- Repeated vomiting, especially with blood or coffee-ground material
- Severe lethargy, collapse, or weakness
- Pale gums or signs of dehydration (sunken eyes, dry gums, skin tenting)
- Abdominal pain, swelling, or distress
- No stool production for more than two days with straining
Kittens, senior cats, and cats with existing medical conditions are at higher risk of complications and should be evaluated promptly.
If you are unsure whether the situation is urgent, calling a veterinary clinic for guidance is a reasonable step. Many clinics can advise you over the phone on whether your cat should be seen immediately or can wait for a scheduled appointment. Having a photo of the stool and a record of when changes started can help the veterinary team triage the situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I identify roundworms from a photo?
Long, round, spaghetti-like worms are commonly roundworms, but a photo cannot definitively confirm the parasite type. A veterinarian can perform a fecal exam to identify the specific worm and recommend appropriate treatment.
How do cats get roundworms?
Cats can acquire roundworms from their mother (especially kittens), by ingesting roundworm eggs from contaminated environments, or by hunting and eating infected prey. Indoor cats can also be exposed through contaminated soil on shoes or other carriers.
POOP SCANNER
Describe what you see and get a prioritized, evidence-based assessment of possible causes.
This tool provides general information and does not replace a veterinarian's diagnosis.
Sources
- Cornell Feline Health Center, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
- VCA Hospitals, Veterinary Clinical Articles
- Merck Veterinary Manual, Merck & Co., Inc.
Disclaimer
This article and the PawAI Poop Scanner tool provide general information and do not replace examination, diagnosis, or treatment by a licensed veterinarian. If your cat shows concerning signs, contact a veterinarian.