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Cat has rice-like things in poop, diarrhea, vomiting. Is it tapeworms?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 22 days old | 8 lbs

Hello, im in need of help. I believe my cat has tapeworms. I haven't been able to take him to the vet. He's been having diarrhea and short past of vomiting. He has also been having these rice-looking things on his anus and I found some in his poop. I do not have a picture of one on his anus but I do have one of his poop. Im very worried about him, if anyone knows anything please help. Thank you.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 6th, 2018

From the picture you provided, it does look like Plug has tapeworms. He will need to see a vet for this problem, as the medication needed to treat it (praziquantel) is available by prescription only. I'd take him into a vet tomorrow. Best of luck.

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    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 23rd, 2018

    Tapeworm segments are small and white, and can look like a grain of rice or a sesame seed. You may notice them near Aegean’s bum or on his bedding. The best way to check if he has tapeworms is to take Aegean to the vet (along with a fecal sample from him) so that the vet can test for tapeworm eggs and treat appropriately. Visit the links below for more information on tapeworms: https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951442 https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952174

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 30th, 2020

    Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about King and for the pictures, they are very helpful! That looks like tapeworms to me in the picture! Tapeworms come out in segments and look like grains of rice. Frequently you can see them around the anus of the cat, in their poop, and next to them if they fall off from another the anus. You should have him seen by a vet. The vet can confirm he has tapeworms and can treat him. The vet will also treat him for fleas since fleas carry and transmit tapeworms to cats. I hope this helps!

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