Parasites, both internally or externally, can inflict cats or dogs with uncomfortable symptoms such as becoming sluggish, itchiness, or diarrhea. Medical treatment for an external or intestinal parasite problem requires treatment from a veterinarian. Contact Thomas Glen Erin Animal Hospital in Mississauga if you are wondering how does a dog gets fleas or how do ticks affect dog or cat health. If you need to learn the signs of heartworm, roundworms, fleas, or ticks, our practitioner can help. Here is some information on parasite prevention and treatment to read over so your pet remains in optimal health.
The Signs of Heartworm and Roundworms
Intestinal parasite problems often cause distress for a dog or cat. If your pet has an internal parasite, medication is necessary to eradicate these pests in their entirety. Unfortunately, roundworms can be present within a pet's body at an early age as they are transferred from mother to baby. Your pet may vomit and the worms will be seen moving around in the expelled matter. Some signs of heartworm include a pet that is sluggish, coughing or wheezing. Again, medication is needed to treat a dog that has this problem. Cats are highly sensitive to drugs/treatment that's why prevention is of utmost importance.
Difficulties with Fleas or Ticks
You may wonder how does a dog get fleas. They are transferred to the fur of the animal outdoors or if someone brings one inside upon their body. Fleas can quickly increase in number and cause itchiness. Some pets are also allergic to flea bites and will have rashes or missing fur because of their presence. How do ticks affect dog or cat health? When a tick adheres to a pet's body, it will drain the animal of blood in that area. This can cause anemia which will make the pet sluggish. Lyme disease is also a concern. The site of the bite could also become infected. Make sure to check your pet for fleas and ticks immediately after they spend time outdoors.
Prevention and Treatment for Parasites
It is best to have your pet checked by our veterinarian if you believe it is suffering from a parasite problem. Treatment will be administered to help avoid health difficulties. In addition, preventative measures are provided in the form of medication to keep your pet from suffering from external or intestinal parasites. Our veterinarian will also provide tips on how to keep parasites from causing your pet distress. Give Thomas Glen Erin Animal Hospital in Mississauga a call to set up an appointment for treatment or evaluation with our practitioner. Contact our office at (905) 997-3320 to find out the services we can provide for your dog or cat.