While certain intestinal worms like tapeworms may not significantly threaten a healthy dog or cat, other types can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. For your pet's well-being, it's essential to be proactive and consult your veterinarian promptly if you suspect your pet has worms. Detecting and treating worm infections early can greatly improve your pet's health. Your veterinarian is the most qualified to provide the necessary care and treatment.
Determine The Type Of Worm
To effectively eliminate worms from your pet, it is essential to identify the type of worm present.
Some worms can be seen with the naked eye, making them easier to identify:
- Roundworms: These can appear in your pet's feces or vomit and resemble short strands of spaghetti.
- Tapeworms: Segments may be seen in your pet's feces, looking like rice grains.
Other worms cause symptoms that can be mistaken for other conditions:
- Hookworms: This may lead to anemia, weight loss, and sore skin between your pet's toes.
- Roundworms: These can cause your pet to have a pot-bellied appearance.
- Tapeworms: This may prompt your pet to scoot on the carpet or ground.
- Whipworms: Can result in weight loss and bloody diarrhea.
Talk To Your Veterinarian
Often, worms do not cause noticeable symptoms in pets, or any symptoms present might be due to other health issues. If you suspect your pet has worms, a veterinarian's diagnosis is essential to identify the type of worm and determine the appropriate treatment.
Even if your pet shows no symptoms or is on regular deworming medication, it is recommended to have your vet perform a fecal examination once or twice a year.
Choose The Right Dewormer
Accurately identifying the specific parasite infecting your pet is crucial, as dewormers are designed to target particular worms or combinations of worms. The worm's lifecycle also influences whether the treatment is a single dose or a series of doses over 2-4 weeks.
For instance, Heartgard Plus (for dogs only) prevents heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms but does not address whipworms or tapeworms. Revolution spot-on solution prevents heartworms in cats and dogs and treats roundworms and hookworms in cats only.
Refer to our treatment comparison chart for a comprehensive overview of which products treat specific worms.
