Worm infestations can cause diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, a swollen belly, dry fur, dull coat, increased heart rate, and sometimes death. Several types of these parasites can infect your pets. Tapeworms can be commonly seen in the stool, but other types, we may look for the eggs- which is why we request a stool sample. You may not even see symptoms since eggs and larvae can lay dormant in your pet's body for months or years.

Roundworms: Kittens and puppies are often born infected with roundworms, which can be transferred in the womb or through nursing. Female roundworms can produce 200,000 eggs each day, which can survive in the soil for years. Symptoms include a pot-bellied appearance and poor growth. 

Tapeworms: These segmented worms are carried by fleas and can grow up to 6 inches long. The end segment is sometimes seen in the stool of infected pets and looks like a grain of rice. The best way to prevent tapeworms is through flea prevention.

Whipworms: These are more common in dogs than in cats. Tiny and thread-like, whipworm infestations are difficult to diagnose because they are seldom seen. Common symptoms are chronic weight loss and mucus in stool. 

Hookworms: Also found more often in dogs, hookworms can be transferred in the soil where infected dogs have passed eggs. A severe infestation can kill puppies who become anemic from blood loss. Symptoms include weight loss, bloody diarrhea, and progressive weakness.

Heartworms: This potentially fatal disease is transferred through mosquito bites and mainly affects dogs. The worm can grow up to a foot in length and can infest the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. This disease is difficult to cure, and we recommend keeping your dog on heartworm preventative year-round. Many heartworm medications are effective against other intestinal parasites as well. 

Even healthy-looking pets can carry worms, so it's important to have your pets checked regularly. Contact us for recommendations on parasite prevention.