The worms that infect your pet are nothing like the ones you find in the soil. These worms can make your pet seriously ill and can even cause death when left untreated. Some of these harmful parasites include ringworm, whipworm, tapeworm, roundworm, hookworm and heartworm. Also, please keep in mind that when you deworm your pet, you are protecting the rest of your family. Some worms are zoonotic and can be passed on to you, other pets and other people in your home. The good news is with preventative medicine and our team by your side, you can keep your pet protected from worms and other parasites.
How can I tell if my pet has worms?
In most cases, the signs of an infestation may be delayed in the early stages. As time goes by and the number of worms increases you will begin to see the symptoms. This is why we encourage preventative treatments and regular testing. Worm infestation can result in your pet experiencing:
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- Bloody stool
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
How are worms diagnosed in my pet?
To detect most worms our team will look for worm eggs. We collect a sample of your pet’s stool and examine it for eggs under a microscope. Tapeworm is an intestinal worm that is not to be examined under a microscope as it can be seen with the naked eye. To detect heartworms we run blood tests and other diagnostics to examine possible internal damage.
What treatments are available to deworm my pet?
If your pet is diagnosed with worms, our hospital will prescribe a deworming medication. The medication can be administered via injection, liquids, tablets or topical creams. Even before your pet becomes infected, you can help protect them by administering preventatives. Prevention medication should be given at specific times without missing any doses. Your pet should begin preventatives when they are a puppy/kitten even if their mother is dewormed. If your pet needs prevention medication, call us at 519-971-3100.
