Parasites in Pets: Fleas, Ticks, and Worms Every Owner Should Understand

Regular Wellness Exams protect your pet from stealthy parasites. Parasites in pets often cause subtle symptoms. Your dog or cat may look perfectly healthy, but intestinal worms, giardia, and coccidia are internal pests that are easy to miss without a health check. 

We will discuss:

External Parasites: Fleas and Ticks

Internal Parasites: Worms in Dogs and Cats

Giardia, Coccidia, and Other Intestinal Parasites 

Can Pet Parasites Spread to People?

Pet Parasites Can Cause Skin, Digestive, and Overall Health Problems

External Parasites: Fleas and Ticks

Oh, cringe! Fleas are a problem. We all know the symptoms of those tiny black specks on our pet’s coat: frequent scratching, hair loss, irritated skin, small scabs, and restlessness. With a flea infection, dogs can become even more sensitive to their bites. Flea prevention is much easier than removing them from your dog and its environment. 

Ticks are also external parasites, but they attach themselves in hidden spots and can be harder to find. Do what you can to keep ticks off, because they can transmit diseases while feasting on your fur baby. Outdoor pets will especially need tick prevention with regular checks.

Internal Parasites: Worms in Dogs and Cats

Because gastrointestinal worms in dogs and parasites in cats are internal, you should watch for symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, a bloated belly, scooting, or a dull coat. Occasionally, you may find worms in your pet’s stool. You should also look for worms in cat vomit.

Puppies, kittens, and outdoor pets are especially susceptible to intestinal parasites in dogs and cats. Your pet can have an intestinal worm infection without obvious symptoms, especially in the early stage. A pet can look normal even with a parasite infection. If you notice any of these internal parasite symptoms, consult your veterinarian promptly. At-home remedies are “hit & miss” because they don’t address the infection severity in conjunction with your pet’s needs. 

Giardia, Coccidia, and Other Intestinal Parasites

Giardia, coccidia, and other parasites aren’t intestinal worms but rather microscopic internal parasites that invade the digestive tracts of dogs and cats. Symptoms of intestinal parasites include diarrhea, soft stools, dehydration, weight loss, and poor appetite. These symptoms mimic other digestive issues, so a proper diagnosis is essential. Coccidia are more common in cats living in multi-animal homes. Veterinary testing for microscopic parasites in dogs and cats is recommended, even when symptoms appear minor. A proper diagnosis isn’t based on symptoms alone and will identify the true cause for precise treatment. 

Can Pet Parasites Spread to People?

Can humans get roundworms from a dog? Both roundworms and hookworms are transferable parasites that can spread to people. That’s why good hygiene and parasite control matter. Wash your hands after working in the soil, picking up dog messes in the yard, or changing litter boxes. Stay current with veterinary visits and parasite treatments. Parasite testing helps to identify and properly treat infections before they spread to other pets and people.

Parasite Prevention Starts With Routine Care

Parasites affect your pet’s skin, digestive system, and overall health, so don’t allow itching, digestive issues, or weight loss to linger before taking action. Routine preventative measures will reduce flea, tick, worm, and other infestations to keep your pets and family safe. During Wellness Exams, veterinarians will recommend a prevention plan tailored to your pet’s age, size, health, lifestyle, and exposure risks.   

Chipman Road Animal Clinic will help keep your pets free from parasites. Stop in for a wellness visit. We have parasite prevention options available to keep your dog or cat healthy and protected.