Parasites can affect your pet in a variety of ways, ranging from simple irritation to causing life-threatening conditions if left untreated. Some parasites can even infect and transmit diseases to you and your family.
How do parasites affect animals?
Internal parasites often interfere with digestion and assimilation of food, causing poor growth, temporary or permanent injuries, or death. Both external and internal parasites may weaken an animal's immune system and create conditions favorable to bacterial disease. In severe cases, these diseases can also be deadly.
Can parasites infect animals?
Intestinal parasites can affect your adult cat or dog, who can pick them up in unsanitary outdoor areas or from wildlife. Until your pet is dewormed for parasites, your family can be at risk of zoonotic parasitic infections.
Do parasites harm dogs?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), at some point in their lives, many pets experience discomfort caused by external parasites, such as fleas, ticks, or mites, on their skin or in their ears. These parasites can cause serious skin problems or carry disease.
Do parasites cause harm?
Parasites are not a disease, but they may spread diseases that can be fatal. However, many parasitic infections are treatable and preventable. If a person is experiencing a skin rash, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or other symptoms of a parasitic infection, they should speak with their doctor.
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