You
may have heard that worms often infect puppies and kittens as well as
older pets, but did you know that humans can also acquire some
infections from animals? It is important to protect your pets and your
family. Your veterinarian can recommend treatments to eliminate and help
prevent worm infections.
Here
are some of the most common parasites:
Roundworms-
This is a common worm for kittens and puppies, but can be seen at any
age. These intestinal parasites may cause weight loss, weakness,
diarrhea, or mucous in the stool. Transmission occurs by infected feces
contaminating the yard.
Hookworms-
This common worm is equally frequent in adults, puppies and kittens.
This parasite sucks the animal’s blood and can cause severe anemia,
diarrhea, weight loss, vomiting and black, tarry stools are other
symptoms. Transmission occurs by infected feces contaminating the grass
or soil.
Whipworms-
This worm affects dogs only. Eggs from this parasite pass
intermittently, however, so it may be necessary to check multiple fecals
before diagnosis is made. Symptoms vary from none to a severe watery
diarrhea, vomiting, and marked weight loss.
Tapeworms-
Transmission occurs when the dog or cat bites and eats a flea. The
intermediate form of the tapeworm is inside the flea’s body and it
attaches to the intestine and begins to grow “segments”. In about 3
weeks these segments begin to pass in stool. They are approximately1/4
to ½ inch long, flat, and white.
Giardia-
This parasite is not a worm. It is a very tiny single-celled protozoa
that can live in the intestine of dogs, cats, and man. Symptoms include
intermittent or continuous diarrhea, weight loss, depression, and loss
of appetite.
Coccidia-
This is also a single-celled protozoa. It is primarily found in puppies
and kittens, although debilitated adults can also be affected.
Transmission occurs by eating the infective stage of the parasite. It
then reproduces in the intestinal tract causing no symptoms in mild
cases to bloody diarrhea in severely affected pets.
Remember
that most pets show no sign of infection. The best protection is to have
regular fecal parasitic exam, deworming, and always keep your pet on a
preventative medications that treat and control these worms.
For
additional information about safe and healthy pet ownership see:
http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/
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