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My new 8-week-old kitten has a bloated tummy. Is it worms or normal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My 8 week old kitten has a bloated tummy, she has no diarrhea, or any other problems. Eating fine but needs encouragement to drink water. I only got her today also I've been mixing our pet food with the one she's used to

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 31st, 2017

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Kittens often seem to have bloated bellies. Sometimes it is just their immature anatomy, sometimes it is internal parasites, especially roundworms. If she is eating a wet kitten food, she is probably getting a fair amount of liquid every day. You usually will not see such a young kitten drinking water consistently. It would be a good idea to take the kitten to your veterinarian for a fecal analysis & proper health check. They will determine what, if any worms the kitten has, & administer the proper medication. Take care.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 25th, 2017
In a young cat/kitten the most common reason for a "bloated" belly is internal parasites (like roundworms or hookworms). At 8 months old has Kilhua not had her vaccinations and deworming yet? If not, I suggest you get that done. Cats are supposed to have vaccines at 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age and they usually get wormed at each vaccine visit.

My other suggestion is to put her on a probiotic like Fortiflora for at least 2 weeks. If you can't get Fortiflora you can use any probiotic as long as it's made for cats (no human one or dairy products). This should help her digestion and minimize any gas build-up.

Hope this helps.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 18th, 2017
This does not look like worms, & kittens often look a bit bloated as their bodies develop. With his energy levels high, & he is eating & drinking well, I would not be too concerned. Just be sure he receives his kitten vaccination boosters on time, & receives additional wormer at that time, too. Take care & thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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