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How long do cat roundworms last in soil? Is my garden safe for family?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 10 years and 11 months old

How long do roundworms last in the soil? If my cats had worms last summer, and may or may not have used the garden to go the bathroom, can I still use that same garden next summer, or move it elsewhere? I will now be treating the cats with monthly worm medicine from the vet. I did not use medicine on a regular basis in the past. I want to keep my family safe from infection.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Darvishian

Veterinarian

Published on December 8th, 2017

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Roundworm eggs survive for months to years in soil and in other environments. I don't think changing the garden location is necessary if you clean all the vegetables really well when harvesting them. You can change the location if you want but how would you know all of the places that the cats have soiled? You are absolutely right to be concerned about your family, especially young children. Make sure that your children wash their hands very well after scooping if they clean the litter box or help you in the garden. Wear gloves when gardening also. This also helps prevent the transmission of toxoplasmosis which is a big concern for women who are pregnant. Great question. Good luck. Deworming is the way to prevent a lot of problems with parasites.

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