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Roundworms, Hookworms, and Tapeworms

As the number of pets in the United States increases, so does the likelihood that both pets and pet owners will be exposed to parasites. Recent surveys indicate that parasites in dogs and cats remain surprisingly high.

Roundworms
Roundworms in dogs and cats are large worms that live as adults in the small intestine. Adult roundworms can produce up to 85,000 eggs per day. This rate of egg production, combined with the long survival rate of the eggs, can increase the risk of exposure and infection for both pets and people. Roundworms cause diarrhea, lethargy, and weight loss in dogs.

Hookworms
Canine and feline hookworms are small whitish or reddish-brown worms that are hooked at one end. As adults, they also live in the small intestine of dogs and cats. Adult hookworms produce up to 20,000 eggs per day, which can result in substantial numbers of eggs and larvae in the environment in a rather short period of time.

Tapeworms
Tapeworms are thin, segmented parasites that can grow up to several feet long. Currently, intestinal tapeworms are underdiagnosed in pets. This may be partly because tapeworm infections do not usually cause detectable disease in dogs and cats.

Help Prevent These Diseases
1. Purchase or adopt pets from reputable breeders and shelters that maintain only healthy animals.
2. Take your pet to your veterinarian at least twice a year for vaccinations, fecal testing, and wellness examinations.
3. Ask your veterinarian about the use of parasite control products, particularly those used for heartworm prevention.
4. Consult with your veterinarian regarding all cases of diarrhea in your dog or cat.
5. Feed pets only a commercially prepared, complete diet, and prevent them from hunting and consuming prey animals.
6. Support fecal removal and leash policies in pet exercise areas and public places.