Deworming is essentially ridding your pet of harmful parasites. The worms that infect your pet can live inside them and are called intestinal. Some intestinal worms include heartworms, tapeworms, whipworms, roundworms and hookworms. They are particularly dangerous as an infestation for your pet can lead to death. Another factor to consider is that some worms are zoonotic which means they can spread to your family. To protect your pet it’s best to have veterinarians administer preventative treatments and schedule regular tests.
What are signs that my pet has worms?
By the time you notice the signs of worms in your pet, the infection is in a progressed stage which makes treatment more difficult. This is why we encourage testing and preventatives. Some signs to look for are:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Bloated belly
- Dragging their behinds
- Visible worms in stool
If you notice any of these signs, please schedule an appointment ASAP by calling 416-489-8387.
How often should I deworm my cat or dog?
Deworming should begin at an early age. We recommend some kittens and puppies get deworming medicine as early as 2-weeks-old. The medication should be given every two weeks until they are 3-months-old. After their first round of deworming, a veterinarian can determine how often they need the preventative moving forward. Some pets are more exposed than others so they may need more testing and deworming. Deworming is a year-round and lifelong part of any pet’s medical care.
How can I protect my family from getting worms?
As mentioned earlier some intestinal worms can transfer to the humans within your household. To avoid becoming infected you should protect your loyal companion from getting worms with preventatives and deworming treatment. To protect yourself, remember to use caution when handling your pet’s waste and follow safe hygiene practices like proper handwashing.
