Kittens and Cats
Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites are a common problem but one
that can be easily treated and prevented. All new pets to the
household should be checked for them at the earliest convenience,
and routinely thereafter.
How do you know if your cat has worms? The only
accurate way to find out is to submit a stool sample for analysis.
Our laboratory checks for worm eggs in the sample - each species
of worm lays a characteristic type of egg. By identifying the
parasite egg the veterinarian is able prescribe the specific medication
best suited for treatment of the parasitic infection.
As a rule of thumb, all animals should have their
stool tested at least once a year. Following is a brief explanation
of the most common types of intestinal parasites.
Roundworms
These are by far the most common intestinal parasite of kittens
and are normally acquired via the bloodstream while still inside
the womb. They can also be transmitted via the milk during nursing.
In older animals, roundworms can be acquired by coming in contact
with infested fecal debris left behind by another animal. The
best and the easiest methods of preventing a roundworm burden
are to clean up feces from your animal and others that visit your
yard on a frequent basis.
If these worms are seen in the fecal matter they
will resemble round strings of spaghetti.
Hookworms
Hookworms are not as common in animals as the roundworm but present
a serious problem. Young animals can be infected in the womb or
from contaminated surroundings. Again, the best method of prevention
is to pick up after your animal and other animals that enter your
yard.
Coccidia and Giardia
These are microscopic protozoan parasites that reside in the small
intestine and often cause diarrhea. Giardia in particular is transmissible
to humans and can cause similar symptoms. These parasites are
found by microscopic evaluation of the stool, available by your
veterinary hospital.
Tapeworms
These are the worms that can be responsible for your pet's itchy
rear-end. The worm lives in the intestine and can be up to 50
cm long. Tapeworms are composed of segments and these are passed
out via the pet's anus; they can often be seen sticking to the
hair coat under the tails. They resemble dry rice grains.
The most common source of tapeworm infection is
the flea, so they are common in summer and fall seasons.
Re-infection
Many clients become frustrated when their pets become re-infested
again and again, in spite of deworming. The following preventive
measure can help combat re-infection:
- Clean up after your pet. Remember that stools
are the source of the eggs.
- Adhere to a routine schedule of stool examination
and deworming as directed by your veterinarian.
- In a multi-pet household, have all the animals
tested and treated at the same time; this will prevent cross-infection.
- Control fleas, ticks and lice, since these pests
are the vectors for the common tapeworm. Their control is imperative.
Zoonoses
Zoonoses are diseases of animals that can
be shared with people. There are many intestinal zoonoses, including
intestinal parasites. The method of infection varies among parasites,
but in general, it is contact with the pets or their stools that
causes transmission to people. It is recommended that pets be
routinely dewormed every 3 months.
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