News and Press

2005-01-10
WHY DO I NEED TO DEWORM MY PET

Why does my pet need to be dewormed?

Cats, Dogs, puppies and kittens are plagued by intestinal parasites such as Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and single-cell parasites such as coccidia and giardia. Left untreated, intestinal parasites can stunt growth and weaken young animals. Symptoms associated with internal parasites can include anemia, vomiting, diarrhea, mucus or blood in the stool, and weight loss Parasites, especially roundworms, can also present a danger to humans..

Roundworms parasites are found in the intestines of dogs and cats. They measure 2-6 inches in length and look like very thin pieces of spaghetti. Roundworm infections often cause kittens and puppies to appear potbellied (or bloated). Typical symptoms associated with roundworms include diarrhea, weight loss and vomiting. Infected kittens and puppies are often less lively and do not grow as well as uninfected animals. Many times there are no symptoms, and can be passed on to humans.

Tapeworms are common parasites that live in the animal’s intestine. Owners sometime notice rice size worm segments in their pet’s stool. An increase in appetite is sometimes noticed as well as a slight decline in body condition. The adult tapeworm attaches itself to the interior of the intestine, causing a local inflammatory reaction. This can sometimes lead to diarrhea. Fleas and rodents are common intermediate hosts and are responsible for transmitting these parasites to dogs and cats. Tapeworms can be passed on to humans. Keeping your pet on Flea prevention will help prevent your pet from getting tapeworms.

 Hookworms are small; thread-like worms that measure ¼ to ¾ inch long. The canine hookworm lives in the intestine attached to the inside wall. Here the parasite will suck large amounts of blood. Anemia and diarrhea (with or without blood) are common symptoms associated with hookworm infection. These worms thrive in moist, warm climates and can be passed on to humans.

Whipworms are threadlike worms embedded in the lining of the dog’s colon and cecum. Symptoms range from slight diarrhea to massive rectal bleeding and weight loss. A mucoid diarrhea is often observed.

 To protect y our pet and family:

     • Provide a clean environment by picking up stool on a regular basis, do not just hose the area, as it will just spread the eggs. The stool must be picked up completely then you can hose.

     • Visit you veterinarian regularly and bring in fresh stool samples for testing

     • If parasites are found, follow the deworming protocol and rechecks completely

     • Practice good hygiene by washing hands often