Everyone is apprehensive about the possibility that your pet could or might not be suffering from an intestinal parasite at one time in their lives. Many pet owners choose to stay clear of the topic; however, knowing the basics is essential since intestinal parasites can lead to serious health issues. To assist, we’ve collected some of the most frequently asked questions about internal parasites and given detailed explanations.
What exactly are intestinal parasites?
Intestinal parasites are parasitic worms that reside primarily in the digestive tract (GI). Tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms are the most commonly encountered intestinal parasites in puppy and kitten veterinary care. The size of the worms and the possible severity of the disease can vary based on your pet’s age and the extent of the infestation.
Infections
Roundworm larvae, hookworms, and tapeworms could be transmitted to your pet when they eat the feces of rodents, dogs, or a flea infected by the parasite. To lay eggs, hookworms can burrow into the skin of your pet.
Health Risk
Hookworms can trigger anemia that can be life-threatening for kittens and puppies, while roundworms can impede growth. The immune system and inflammation can be the result of any parasitic infection. If your pet has an illness like diabetes, the parasite can exacerbate it. The parasites could cause significant body systems to shut down and even cause death if not treated.
Transmission
Humans aren’t immune to intestinal parasites, and neither are other animals. Due to their digestive system environment, eggs and larvae are excreted through stool. The infective larvae live in the soil surrounding the feces, exposing the dogs and children to infection and accidental ingestion. Visit your local veterinarian for more info and to diagnose your pets immediately.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms displayed by your pet can vary based on the kind of disease. Kittens and puppies infected by roundworms often have a plump appearance. Diarrhea, bloody stool weight loss, and anemia are all disease signs; however, pets with roundworms typically do not exhibit any symptoms until they become critically sick. Since most parasites produce eggs, observing the worms does not indicate whether your pet is suffering. The only way to determine an accurate diagnosis is to conduct the testing of feces for larvae.
Treatment
The severity and type of the illness determine the treatment. It is possible to prescribe anti-parasitic medications and antibiotics. If your pet suffers from an ongoing condition, she requires specialized treatment to prevent reinfections, since contamination from the environment and reinfection could be possible.
Preventive Measures
Deworming routinely is the most effective and cheapest method to safeguard your pet from parasites. Also, keep your pet away from public areas or areas with a lot of traffic for dogs, like sandboxes, pathways for walking, and a dog park. Practicing proper hygiene at home by washing their hands before eating and never walking barefoot outdoors is important. Feel free to visit Greenbrier-Springfield Animal Hospital for pet vaccinations and other services offered.
Conclusion
It’s not a pleasant thought to think about whether it’s possible that your pet, or any member of your family, is suffering from intestinal parasites. This basic knowledge should help you handle unwanted guests in your pet’s home and family. The good news is that preventative treatment is easy and inexpensive. You must seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect your pet is suffering from an infection. Contact your local clinic immediately if you or your animal is worried about parasites or diseases they could spread.
