Intestinal worms, otherwise known as parasitic worms, are parasites that develop inside your pet’s intestines, and often point towards negative and potentially fatal effects on the animal’s life. They are not only limited to our furry companions, but are also a threat to human beings, posing as great a threat to human life. It is therefore of the utmost importance that upon retrieving a new cat or dog that the owner takes measures to prevent the imminent danger that is the development of intestinal worms in their beloved pets.
Most common intestinal worms in pets :
- Tapeworm
- Hookworm
- Roundworm
- Whipworm
It is important to remedy a case of intestinal worms almost as soon as it begins in order to limit its effects on your pets as much as possible and prevent the parasites from growing. With that said, it is vital that you take notice of any behavioural changes in your pet that may indicate intestinal worms. Such indications include:
- Diarrhoea
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Exhaustion
- Poor-coat appearance
- Potbelly appearance
- Anaemia
Additionally, a very bad case of intestinal worms can lead to the death of your companion.
The lifecycle and development of a particular worm can be unique including the development externally as well as the internal development of the parasite. Tapeworms, for example, rely on fleas as a means of transmission into your animal’s intestines – and therefore practicing an anti-flea remedy for your pet can effectively combat the development of intestinal worms. Educating yourself on these different forms of parasitic development upon obtaining a furry friend is mandatory in order to sustain a healthy and happy pet.
There are a number of solutions to preventing fleas on your pet, including washing your pet with a clinically recommended shampoo as well as acquiring flea repellents or specifically produced pills prescribed by your professional veterinarian that help stave off these parasites.
It is always recommended that you de-worm your pets within a prescribed period of time (every 2 weeks until they are 12 weeks of age, then every month until they are 6 months of age and then every 3 months for the rest of their life), by use of tablets, pastes, sprays etc, and whatever other method recommended by your veterinarian.
Other methods to rely on for the prevention of worms in your pets include:
- Keeping your pet’s environment clean
- Disposing of faeces promptly after excretion
- Restricting children from playing around contaminated soil
- Practicing good hygiene by washing hands regularly, especially after exposure to contaminated soil as well as playing with the pets
As well as any other precautionary measure as advised by a medical professional. Practicing and abiding by these measures as well as educating yourself on the topic of intestinal worms, its effects and its prevention measures will aid you in protecting not just your pet against these deadly parasites, but yourself and your children as well – allowing for long and healthy lives for all parties. Where there are any uncertainties or a desire for the most suitable remedies for your pets, it is in your best interest to contact the vet hospital for advice and treatment.