Roundworms
Roundworms (ascarids) are commonly found in
puppies and kittens; they can become infected by the
mother while still in the uterus. They are long, white
and coiled, and are sometimes seen in stool or vomit.
Roundworms can cause intestinal upset and stunted
growth in puppies and kittens. Pets become infected
by ingesting roundworm eggs or larvae in contaminated stool or feces. Eggs can remain inactive
in soil for years, so reinfestation is common.
Roundworms can be diagnosed by having a fecal test done on your pet's stool. Medication will need to be repeated and the stool rechecked to make sure all of the adults, eggs, and larvae are killed. To prevent re-infestation, or infecting other dogs and cats, stool must be disposed of promptly, infected soil should be turned, and any other household pets should be checked for infestation. Human infection is possible but very rare since eating contaminated soil or stool is necessary for infection. Washing your hands after handling puppies and kittens is recommended, and keeping children away from infected areas or sandboxes is a good idea. Some monthly heartworm preventatives can also prevent roundworms infection.
Hookworms
The hookworm is one of the most dangerous parasites
because it can cause extensive intestinal bleeding and
anemia. In young, weak, or malnourished animals,
hookworms can cause sudden collapse and death.
Weight loss, tarry or bloody stool, and diarrhea often
occur in pets infested with hookworms. Dogs and cats
can become infested with hookworms by ingestion of
eggs or larvae, penetration of the skin by larvae, or
transmission of larvae from the mother while still in the uterus.
Hookworms can be diagnosed with a fecal exam, and are treated with medication to kill the worms, and correcting the anemia if necessary. Feces and areas where the dog or cat has been should be cleaned promptly and the stool rechecked. Some heartworm preventatives can also prevent hookworm infections.
Tapeworms
The tapeworm is a parasite found in the intestines of
dogs and cats. It consists of a head and a long flat
body made up of segments. Tapeworm infestations
can cause digestive upsets, poor appetite, poor hair
coat and skin and intestinal discomfort.
Tapeworms can be diagnosed by finding the segments
in your dog's or cat's feces (the segments look like
grains of rice) or in bedding or around the anus. The eggs do not often show up in a fecal test, but having a fecal test done on your pet's stool is a good idea if you see signs of tapeworms. It can show if any other parasites are present so you can get the appropriate medication.
Tapeworms use a flea as an "intermediate host", which means that your pet has to swallow a flea to become infected. Medication is very effective, but you must also eliminate fleas from the environment or your pet may get infected again and again. Tapeworms are not passed from pets to humans.
Whipworms
Whipworms are rare in cats, but can cause extensive
damage in puppies and adult dogs. They are small,
thin worms that live in the large intestine. Whipworms
can cause diarrhea, bloody feces and poor general
health.
Whipworms are not always easy to diagnose. Three
or more fecal tests may need to be done. Whipworms
tend to be a recurring problem because they are difficult to eradicate. At least three doses of deworming medication and follow-up fecal tests will be necessary. |
