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Why is my kitten leaking poop, leaving streaks, and has rice worms?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Siamese | Male | unneutered | 7 months and 4 days old | 1lb

Hi. I noticed that my kitten (about 5-6 months) started having fecal incontinence. I've had him for about 2 months and this has never happened before. He was sleeping and I noticed he had a little poop that looked like it was coming out so I immediately wiped. He has been leaving streaks on bedding and pillows. Sometimes I find tiny dropping on the floor. What can be causing this? He has an appt with a vet on Monday like an answer sooner. Also, noticed worms are back. Small, rice like THANKS

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Sara Farmer, DVM

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 5th, 2017

Fecal incontinence can be due to a neurologic problem or a problem with the colon or rectum. Sometimes cats with diarrhea can also show mild fecal incontinence. Your veterinarian can check his reflexes and and anal tone to see if he is showing signs of neurologic disease. Other possibilities include trauma (possibly before you got him), diseases like megacolon, or a rectal stricture. Your veterinarian might recommend a taking a stool sample, taking some spinal x-rays, or sedating Gizmo for a digital rectal exam.

I would guess that the worms are tapeworm segments and are unrelated to the cause of his fecal incontinence unless you have seen him scooting.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    I am very sorry to hear that Gizmo has been exoperiwncing these issues. I am sure it is upsetting for you both. From the symptoms you are describing it sounds like Gizmo is experiencing diarrhoea, which is most likely caused by her gastrointestinal worm infestation. Worms which appear like rice in a tad feces are usually tapeworms. Your vet will be able to diagnose all the worms present by a fecal analysis using a microscope and can then prescribe an appropriate deworming tablet or injection.

    I hope this was helpful, and that Gizmo feels better after her worm treatment.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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