Yes, humans can get worms from cats, but it’s uncommon and usually preventable with good hygiene and regular deworming for your cat.

Quick Scoop

  • Certain cat worms are zoonotic , meaning they can pass from cats to people, especially roundworms, hookworms, and some tapeworms.
  • Infection usually requires contact with contaminated poop, soil, or—rarely—swallowing an infected flea, not just cuddling or sleeping near your cat.
  • The risk is higher for young children, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system, so prevention and hygiene really matter.

How humans can get worms from cats

  • Roundworms (Toxocara)
    • Eggs are shed in cat feces, then become infectious in the environment (soil, sandboxes, gardens).
* Humans (often kids) can accidentally ingest these microscopic eggs from dirty hands, contaminated soil, or objects.
  • Hookworms
    • Larvae in contaminated soil can actually penetrate human skin, typically through bare feet or exposed skin.
* This can cause itchy, winding red tracks in the skin (cutaneous larva migrans).
  • Tapeworms (like Dipylidium caninum)
    • Humans can get them only if they swallow an infected flea, which is rare but possible, especially in small children.
* This might happen through close contact with a flea-infested cat or contaminated hands.

How likely is it?

  • Human infections from cat worms are considered uncommon to rare in most household settings with basic hygiene.
  • Tapeworm infection from cats has been documented but with relatively few cases worldwide compared with how many people live with cats.
  • The risk increases when:
    • Cats are not dewormed regularly.
    • There is poor litter-box hygiene.
    • Fleas are not controlled.
    • Kids play in areas where cats defecate (sandboxes, gardens) and then put their hands in their mouths.

Protecting yourself and your family

  • For your cat
    • Keep a regular vet-recommended deworming schedule.
* Use effective flea prevention consistently, not just seasonally.

* Avoid feeding raw meat or wild prey that can carry parasites.
  • For your home and environment
    • Scoop the litter box at least once daily; wash hands thoroughly afterward.
* Disinfect litter boxes regularly and keep them away from food-preparation areas.

* Cover sandboxes and discourage stray cats from using your garden as a toilet.
  • Personal hygiene
    • Wash hands after handling cats, litter, soil, or outdoor toys, and always before eating.
* Wear shoes outdoors to reduce hookworm risk from contaminated soil.

* Teach children not to put dirty hands, soil, or sandbox toys in their mouths.

When to worry and see a doctor

  • See a doctor (and tell them you live with a cat) if you notice:
    • Unexplained stomach pain, diarrhea, or weight loss.
* Itchy, winding red lines on your skin (possible hookworm).

* Vision changes or eye discomfort after known exposure to contaminated soil (rare roundworm complication).
  • If your cat has visible worms in stool, around the anus, or is scooting, contact a vet promptly and mention any close contact family members have had (especially young kids).

Bottom line: living with cats is usually very safe as long as you stay on top of deworming, flea control, and basic hygiene. The risk isn’t zero, but it’s very manageable.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.