Top 5 Most Common Parasites in Dogs and Cats.

More than 50% of house holds now a days have either a dog or a cat. Some have more than one of each. There have been studies done that prove that having a pet is beneficial in many different ways.

Of course, any good fur parent wants to give their fur babies the best possible care. I know when I first started out owning pets, I didn't have any idea about all of the vaccines (except for rabies). I had no idea how many other possible parasites there really are and what to do about them.

I am thankful that I have attended Vet Assisting school and have worked at animal hospitals/clinics. Now I feel like I actually have a well rounded knowledge of what signs I have to look for, treatment options and tests they have out there as far as diagnosing diseases goes.

With that being said, if you're reading this then i'm guessing you want to learn more about how to tell if your pet needs immediate Veterinary care and a little bit more about what YOU can do to help; so without further adue, here are 5 of the most common parasites found in dogs and cats.

Hookworms

Hookworms are intestinal parasites of the dog and cat. Their name originates from the hook-like mouthparts they use to anchor themselves on to the lining of the intestinal wall. They are only about 1/8" (2-3 mm) long and so small that they are barely visible to the naked eye.

Signs/Symptoms: Pale gums, weakness, bloody diarrhea, anemia, weight loss or dry hair/coat.

Roundworms:

Roundworms, also known as nematodes or ascarids, are common parasites that live inside your dog or cat's intestines. They feed on partially digested food. Most dogs or cats get them at one time or another but they are more common in puppies. Dogs get two main roundworm species: Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina. Toxocara canis is worse, and people can get it, as well. They are usually white or light brown and can be up to a few inches long. They look like spaghetti to the naked eye.

Signs/Symptoms: Weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, dull coat, potbelly and weight loss.

Whipworms:

Whipworms are small worms. They can reach a maximum size of 2-3 inches. They have a thin, whip-like front end and a thicker back end. The whipworms attach themselves to the walls of the large intestine, feeding on the animal's blood. Whipworms are seldom seen in your dog or cat's stool which is why a stool sample and fecal exam are very important! Do not skip over this when you go to see your Veterinarian.

Signs/Symptoms: Watery/ bloody stool, general debilitation and weight loss.

Tapeworms:

If you have ever seen white, mobile tapeworm segments in the feces or crawling around the anus, you have more than likely seen tapeworms. They look like grains of white rice or cucumber seeds. Your pet can potentially contract tapeworms by ingesting a flea that has been contaminated. The best way to prevent this is by giving regular groomings and making sure they are on a good flea and tick preventitive. You can talk to your veterinarian for the best option for you and your pet(s).

Signs/Symptoms: Scooting, vomiting, sudden and unexplained weight loss.

Giardiosis (Giardia):

Giardia is a single-celled parasite that lives in your dog or cat's intestine. It infects older dogs/cats but more frequently infects puppies or kittens. Dogs become infected when they swallow Giardia that may be present in water or other substances that have been soiled with contaminated feces. Your pet may also contract giardia by rolling and playing in contaminated soil or licking their body after contact with a contaminated surface such as a dog crate or a dirty litter box. It is very possible for them to have Giardia and show no symptoms so getting their regular check ups at the Vet is crutial!

Signs/Symptoms: diarrhea, abdomial discomfort, gas, vomiting and nausea

Although I am not licensed to be able to treat or diagnose your dog or your cat, I do know the importance of them getting their regular checkups and keeping up with their preventatives. It's all needed and helpful in the long run. Talk to your Veterinarian about your prevention options and what they have available and let them know if you have any other questions regarding the topic. But hey, your fur babies love you and are there for you unconditionally. It's only fair you do the same thing for them, right?