Those pesky intestinal worms that are commonly found in cats and dogs are parasites that live in the digestive tract. The amount of damage they cause depends on the type and the number of worms. In general, the adult worms that infect dogs and cats cannot live in people, but in rare cases immature forms of these parasites can migrate through human tissue, causing inflammation and potentially serious problems.
The four common intestinal worms of dogs and cats are tapeworms, roundworms, whipworms, and hookworms.
Tapeworms are long, segmented white worms that embed their heads into the lining of the digestive tract and absorb nutrients. Segments containing eggs can be found in the feces of infected cats and dogs. There are two common types of tapeworms: one has segments that resemble grains of rice, and the other looks like a flat, segmented ribbon. Pets usually contract the first type by eating fleas, so this type of infection means that a flea infestation is also likely. Pets, especially cats, can become infected with the second type of tapeworm by eating infected rodents and other prey. Many infected pets show no signs of a tapeworm infection, but vomiting and diarrhea can occur, robbing them of essential nutrients.
Roundworms are long, white worms that look like strands of spaghetti. Infections are most common in puppies and kittens (although they can be found in adults) because they are often infected directly from their mother. Adult worms live in the small intestine, where they consume nutrients and irritate the digestive tract. Coiled-up white worms can sometimes be seen in vomit or feces. Puppies and kittens infected with large numbers of worms often have trouble gaining weight and may have “potbellies” from a blocked digestive tract, as well as a dull coat.
Whipworms get their name from their long, slender bodies that are capped with a small club-like end. These worms lie coiled within the wall and lining of the large intestine. Pets become infected from eggs that are deposited with the feces. In mild infections, pets may not show any signs, but in more severe cases, pets often develop diarrhea with blood in it.
Hookworms are small parasites that chew their way into the intestinal wall, where they attach and feed on blood. Infection is often passed directly from the mother to the puppies or kittens, but pets can also become infected by eating or coming into contact with infested soil. Hookworms can’t be seen in feces, but infected pets usually develop dark diarrhea that may have blood.
Most veterinarians recommend regular fecal exams to test for various intestinal parasites. Many medications are available to treat the various types of worm infections. If you think your cat or dog has worms, take a fresh fecal sample to the vet right away. Depending on where the worms are in their life cycle, more than one treatment could be necessary, so the sooner the better! Keeping your yard and litter boxes clear of feces helps limit the number of worm eggs in the environment. Flea prevention is also important in this endeavor.
