Dogs and cats are both victims of several intestinal parasites called worms. The types of worms include roundworms, pinworms, hookworms and tapeworms. Only roundworms and tapeworms can be seen in a dog’s stool with the naked eye. Worm infestations cause many symptoms that include weight loss, dry hair, diarrhea (sometimes bloody) and vomiting. Some worm infestations do not cause any symptoms. The eggs can lie dormant until times or stress and may be passed on to the puppies of a female dog. For this reason, a stool sample is the best way to diagnose a worm infestation. If one is present, you will need a dewormer for dogs.
Hookworms are more common in dogs than in cats. They are tiny, thin worms that adhere to the intestinal wall and suck blood. There are several ways a dog becomes infested with hookworms including a mother’s milk, ingesting eggs after birth, being exposed to the larvae in contaminated stool, and coming in contact with the larvae in the uterus. Serious hookworm infestations can kill a puppy, that why it is important to use a dewormer for dogs after weaning. Older dogs with a hookworm infestation will exhibit symptoms such as weight loss, poor stamina and diarrhea.
Whipworms are also seen more often in dogs. They are difficult to detect as they shed few eggs and even the examination of several stool samples may not reveal the worms. The worms resemble tiny pieces of thread with an enlarged end. Dogs with whipworms generally have chronic weight loss and stools that appear to have a mucus covering. The whipworms are not fatal, but are bad for the dog, so if you suspect this type of parasite ask your vet about purchasing a dewormer for dogs to rid your pet of the parasites and ensure their good health.
The other two types of worms are tapeworms and roundworms. Cats and dogs can get a tapeworm infestation by eating fleas or eating wild animals infected with the worm eggs. You can see the tapeworms in a stool sample, so they are easy to detect. However, they cannot be treated with over-the-counter dewormer for dogs. The majority of puppies are born with roundworm eggs in their intestine. You can spot the worms in either vomit or stool and if not properly treated, a severe roundworm infection can cause intestinal blockage and death. If you are unsure if your pet has worms, consult your veterinarian.
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