Do you think your pet(s) may have worms or parasites? Well hopefully this article will help you get an answer more quickly!
The most common types of worms in cats and dogs are tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms and whipworms- dogs only.
Symptoms in Dogs
- Diarrhea, maybe mixed with blood
- Worm or worm segments visible in the stool or on the dog’s butt
- Weight loss
- A bloated belly
- Vomiting, sometimes with worms in the vomit
Symptoms in Cats
- Visible presence: For many cat owners, the first sign will be a visible presence of worms. You may see whole worms, parts of worms or worm eggs in your pet’s stool or vomit. Worms or eggs can also sometimes migrate to a cat’s butt, getting stuck in the fur.
- Change in coat: If your cat is infested with a parasite, their fur may appear dull, rumpled or clumped due to lack of nutrients, vitamins. or dehydration.
- Change in color of gums: The gums of a healthy cat should be nice and pink, but if they appear pale or white, your cat may be experiencing anemia, or dehydration to the worms.
- Vomiting: Vomiting is a common occurrence in cats, but if it’s happening more frequently than usual, worms could be the culprit.
- Change in stool / bowel movements: Dark, tarry stool indicates the presence of blood, potentially from hookworms. Worms in the gut can also cause diarrhea.
- Increased appetite despite weight loss: As the worms deprive your cat of vital nutrients, they need to take in more food in order to try to maintain their body condition.
*Never give your animals or pets medications or treatments without your veterinarians approval and support! If you think your animal is sick or needing veterinary help, contact your veterinarian immediately!
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