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Intestinal parasites include Roundworms, Hookworms, Tapeworms, and Whipworms, and are so named because the live and grow inside the intestine of your pet. These worms often infect puppies and kittens, as well as older pets. Dogs and cats of any age may get worms, but they are most vulnerable when they are very young. In fact, it is not unusual for puppies of only 2-3 weeks of age to harbor a significant number of worms. This is because these worms are often passed from a mother to her puppies/kittens before birth, and shortly after birth via her milk.
Roundworms Kittens and puppies can acquire roundworms from their mothers while nursing, or by eating infected animals such as rodents or snakes. Most often they are ingested as eggs and develop into larvae, and later into adult worms. Most pets show no sign of infection, however some do show symptoms including vomiting, loss of appetite, or severe weight loss. Heavy infections in young puppies and kittens can be fatal. You can protect your pet by having them de-wormed by your vet at an early age, keeping them on a preventive drug program, and getting regular physical examinations.
Roundworms are a zoonotic parasite, meaning they can also be transmitted to humans. Children are especially at risk. Dogs and cats infected with these worms contaminate their surroundings by passing eggs or larvae in their feces. Because pets will pass feces anywhere, they may contaminate a large area quickly. These eggs and larvae are resilient and can survive in areas such as parks, playgrounds, and yards... even inside homes. People get roundworms by ingesting contaminated soil, sand, or plant life. Children are more vulnerable to this risk, as they are more likely to put dirty objects and hands in their mouths, and some even go through a stage where they eat dirt (pica). You can learn more about how roundworms affect people on our Zoonotic Diseases page.
Hookworms Hookworm infections may develop while a kitten or puppy is in the womb or nursing, through skin penetration, or later in life as pets swallow hookworm eggs or larvae. They attach to the intestinal lining and leave bleeding internal wounds. Symptoms include weakness, weight loss, unhealthy appearance and dull, unkept skin and coat. You can protect your pet by having them de-wormed by your vet at an early age, keeping them on a preventive drug program, and getting regular physical examinations.
Hookworms are also Zoonotic, and can penetrate the skin of children when walking barefoot. Hookworm larvae typically move about within the skin, causing inflammation in the affected skin. One type of hookworm can also penetrate into deeper tissues and cause more serious damage to the intestine and other organs. You can learn more about how Hookworms affect people on our Zoonotic Diseases page.
Tapeworms Tapeworms are transmitted by fleas, and also by eating raw meat or fish. Tapeworms reside in the intestine of the pet, and absorb vital nutrients your pet needs to stay healthy. If your pet has a tapworm, segments of the tapeworm can often be seen in the pet's feces. Other symptoms include weight-loss and lack of energy. Tapeworms are often a sign of flea infestation, and can be prevented by protecting against fleas and making sure your pet doesn't eat raw meat or fish.
Whipworms Whipworms are common in dogs, but rarely infect cats. Whipworms are so called due to their whip-like shape, being very thin at the head, and fatter at the tail. Dogs generally acquire whipworms by ingesting eggs found in contaminated water or food. Whipworms attach themselves to the intestinal lining and feed on blood. Adult whipworms lay eggs, which can be detected in feces. Other symptoms may include diarrhea and weight loss.
The compassionate doctors and staff at Hills & Dales Veterinary Clinic are committed to helping you protect your pet from intestinal worms and other threats. For more information or to schedule a physical examination, call our office at 293-1993.
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