Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

When do cat tapeworm symptoms appear & can it cause colitis?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 9 years and 2 months old | 9 lbs

Hi there ! How long after a cat ingests a flea with tapeworm will one be able to see evidence of infection around the behind area or in stool? Also, if a kitty had tapeworm for a long period of time , could that cause Colitis ? If so, would the Colitis continue even if the tapeworm were eventually treated ? thank you

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 1st, 2018

It generally takes about 2-3 weeks from the ingestion of a flea until tapeworms are evident. It can lead to colitis although not very common. Generally if colitis is evident you may have a secondary infection that requires medication to treat it besides addressing the tapeworms.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored