A case of a cat with lungworms, caused by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus.
These are nematodes (roundworms) that parasitise the respiratory tract and cause inflammation — bronchopneumonia. Cats that go outside or live outdoors are affected, since infection occurs by swallowing larvae from the soil or by eating intermediate hosts — molluscs, birds, mice and others.
The exact diagnosis is made by examining a faecal sample, in which the parasite’s larvae are found — they reach the intestines and are shed into the environment, ready to invade new hosts. A video from a microscopic examination at City Veterinary Clinic — open the video
Standard deworming does not kill this type of parasite; a different kind of medication is used.