Parasites in dogs and cats

Parasites from birth

Puppies are at risk of prenatal parasite infestation while still in the womb.The larval stages of roundworms can penetrate the bitch's placenta.After birth, puppies can also become infected through their mother's milk.If you’re buying a puppy from a breeder or adopting one from a shelter, you should check the deworming schedule and consult with your veterinarian.Parasite infestations at such a young age can have a negative impact on a dog’s health and immune system.

Kittens are not at risk of prenatal parasite infestation; they are born free of roundworms.While being nursed by their mother, kittens are just as susceptible to lactogenic infections as puppies.

Roundworms

Puppies and kittens after weaning, as well as adult dogs and cats, can become infected with invasive forms of roundworms found in soil, puddles, and lawns.This is because some infected dogs and cats excrete roundworm eggs in their feces.For the first 9 to 15 days, these eggs are not dangerous.

That is why it is so important to pick up dog feces immediately after the dog has defecated.If they are removed from the environment, the risk of infection decreases for healthy dogs and cats that may come into contact with their fellow animals’ feces during walks.The invasive stage of roundworms left on the lawn can remain a threat for up to a year or longer.Older dogs and cats that have not been dewormed may be carriers of parasites without showing any clinical symptoms.The dog roundworm (Toxocara canis) and the cat roundworm (Toxocara cati) can also be dangerous to humans, who become infected by accidentally swallowing infective eggs or eating raw, infected meat.

Coccidiosis

Coccidiosis is most common in young puppies and kittens.It is a disease caused by protozoa.It manifests itself as digestive problems.Damage to the intestinal lining and inflammation can lead to bloody diarrhea, loss of appetite, and dehydration, which is particularly dangerous in puppies and kittens.

Tapeworm

Internal parasites in dogs and cats include the tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum).The intermediate host in the life cycle of this endoparasite is fleas or lice, which may be ingested by a dog or cat.An adult tapeworm then develops inside the animal's body.Dipylidium caninum can grow to several dozen centimeters in length while living inside a pet's body.

The Problem tapeworm infestations currently affects neglected dogs more often, as they are not protected against fleas and ticks.Most of the products we use year-round to control ticks are also effective against fleas.If a flea infestation is detected, be sure to eliminate these ectoparasites and their life stages from the environment as well.

Gardioza

Giardiasis, also known as lambliasis, is a disease caused by a protozoan that can parasitize the epithelial cells of the small intestine in dogs and cats.It is a common cause of diarrhea and secondary fungal and bacterial infections.Giardiasis is more commonly observed in young animals, as adults may be asymptomatic.This parasite spreads through cysts that may be present in contaminated water or food.Giardiasis is a zoonosis, which means it can also be dangerous to humans.It is more common in children and adolescents.

Deworming

Dogs should be dewormed starting at two weeks of age.Until the dog is 6 months old, repeat deworming at monthly intervals.Adult dogs should be dewormed every 3 months.Before deworming, it is advisable to have a veterinarian perform a laboratory stool testto check for a parasitic infestation, and if so, which one.A positive result from a laboratory stool test helps the veterinarian select a medication specifically designed to treat a particular parasitic infection.There may be situations when dogs need to be dewormed more frequently.For example, before a trip, after bringing a new pet home, or in families with young children.

We deworm kittens starting at 3 weeks of age, every two weeks until weaning.Then every month until the age of 6 months.We deworm adult outdoor cats four times a year and indoor cats twice a year.

The presence of parasites has a detrimental effect on an animal's body, particularly on its immune system.That is why screening for parasitic diseases and regular deworming should be standard practice when caring for our four-legged friends.