Dogs and cats are not just pets. They are treated like members of the family. And like any member of your family, it's important to keep your companion animal healthy and free of parasites. It is fairly common for a dog or cat to become infected with an internal or external parasite at some point in its lifetime.
Do you have parasites if you have a dog?
Diarrhea, bloody stool, weight loss, and anemia can indicate disease, but infected pets often don't show any signs until they are seriously ill. Because most parasites produce only eggs, you cannot rely on seeing any worms to know your pet is infected. Fecal testing for larvae is the only way a diagnosis can be made.
Do pet owners have worms?
Some pets are born with intestinal worms (transmitted from their mother while in utero or through milk). Intestinal parasites can affect your adult cat or dog, who can pick them up in unsanitary outdoor areas or from wildlife.
Can pets cause worms in humans?
Yes. These worms, like other infections that humans can get from animals, are called zoonotic (zoe-o-NOT-ick) infections or zoonoses (zoe-o-NO-sees). By learning about these infections and how to prevent them, you can help protect your pets, yourself, and your family.
What pets carry parasites?
A dog may be man's best friend. However, household pets of all types can carry diseases or parasites (organisms living inside or on another organism) that make people sick. This includes dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles. It also includes animals that people turn into pets, such as farm animals (pigs, chickens).
Can animals transfer parasites to humans?
Pets can carry and pass parasites to people. Some dog and cat parasites can infect people. Young animals, such as puppies and kittens, are more likely to be infected with roundworms and hookworms.
How do I know if I got worms from my pet?
Protecting Your Dog (and Yourself) From Worms “Signs may include a dull coat, lethargy, diarrhea, soft stool, anemia, and an overall lack of pep and vitality.”
Can you get parasites in your house?
They are also very easily spread. If one member of a household contracts the infection, then everyone in the household has to be treated. The worms live for about 5 to 6 weeks in the intestines before dying, leaving behind eggs that hatch and take up residence.
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