Like all animals, dogs and cats are prone to internal parasites. The four most common ones that affect both species include roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms, which we’ll discuss more in depth below.
Roundworms
Roundworms are the most common intestinal parasite in dogs and cats. They are transmitted when the worm eggs develop into larvae and pass in feces. Other animals can become infected by eating contaminated soil, licking contaminated fur or paws, or by drinking contaminated water. The fecal-oral route is more common in dogs than cats however.
Infected female dogs can also pass roundworms to their puppies before birth or after birth during nursing. Cats cannot pass on infection to their kittens before birth, but may do so through nursing. Puppies and kittens are most susceptible to roundworm infection.
Roundworms live in the small intestine and steal nutrients from food, which can lead to malnutrition and intestinal problems. As the roundworm larvae move through the body, they can also cause respiratory problems such as pneumonia, cough, nasal discharge, and pulmonary edema.
Severe infection with adult roundworms can cause:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Anorexia
- Abdominal fluid
- Emaciation
- Poor coat
Heavy infections can even cause death in puppies and kittens.
Hookworms
Hookworms are the second most common intestinal parasites in dogs, but they are less common in cats. Animals can become infected by hookworms when larvae penetrate the skin or the lining of the mouth. An infected female dog can also pass infection on to her puppies through nursing.
Hookworms are dangerous because they bite into the intestinal lining and suck blood. This can lead to potentially life threatening blood loss, weakness, and malnutrition. Hookworms can also cause severe intestinal damage, even proving fatal, especially in puppies and kittens.
Whipworms
Whipworms have a whip-like shape, which gives them their name. The larvae are passed in feces and other animals can pick up infection by eating infected soil or licking contaminated fur or paws.
Similar to hookworms, whipworms attach to the intestines and suck blood; however they are generally less harmful than hookworms. With that said, occasionally severe infections can occur, leading to diarrhea, weight loss, and blood loss. Chronic enteritis can also occur and puppies may have reduced growth rate.
Cats don’t appear to be as severely affected by whipworms.
Tapeworms
Tapeworms get their name because of their thin, flat appearance. Dogs and cats become infected with tapeworms when they eat infected fleas or lice. They can also get certain types of tapeworms by eating infected rodents.
Tapeworms take up residence in the small intestine, stealing nutrients from food. A tapeworm infection can be diagnosed when the egg sacs (which look like flatted grains of rice) are seen around the anus or in their stools.
Symptoms of tapeworm infection include:
- Failure to grow
- Irritability
- Decreased appetite
- Shaggy coat
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Treating Common Parasites in Cats and Dogs Naturally
Fortunately there is a natural way to treat all four common parasites in cats and dogs. Our Wormguard products for cats and dogs are designed to kill parasites mechanically, without the risk of harmful side effects to your pet. They are 100% safe and effective and come in several different formulas for different needs.