Lifecycle. The general life cycle of a lungworm begins with an ingestion of infective larva/e. The infective larvae then penetrate the intestinal wall where larvae migrate into the lungs through the bloodstream. The infected larvae reside in the lungs until the development into an adult lungworm.
How long does lungworm take to develop?
Depending on the species of lungworm, the larvae can develop into adult worms in as little as 5 weeks after being ingested by a dog. However, in other lungworm species, maturation into adult worms can take up to 21 weeks.
Are lungworms seasonal?
Symptoms are most commonly seen in first- year grazing cattle in late summer and autumn, but can occur earlier in the year and in older animals. The most characteristic clinical sign of lungworm infection is widespread coughing within a herd.
How long does rat lungworm live?
The parasite has been reported to live in water for up to 72 hours, and could possibly survive in slime under very moist conditions. Reference: Cheng, T.C. & Alicata, J.E. 1964.
How long does it take to treat lungworm?
It can take 40 days for the larvae to mature. Thankfully, treatment with antiparasitic medication is usually effective. Worried about your dog's health?
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