Once the flea is digested by the dog or cat, the larval tapeworm is able to develop into an adult tapeworm. The adult tapeworm is made up of many small segments, called proglottids, each about the size of a grain of rice. Adult tapeworms may measure 4-28 inches in length.
What types of worms do fleas cause?
"Fleas are the intermediate host for the tapeworm, Dipylidium caninum." Consequently, tapeworms are more common in environments that are heavily infested with fleas. It is recommended to treat your cat for fleas if tapeworms are noted, and use flea control to prevent future flea infestations and tapeworm infections.
Are fleas and worms linked?
Fleas and worms are closely linked as the lifecycle of certain worms that affect our pets involve fleas harbouring worm eggs in their gut. That said, if an animal doesn't have fleas, it doesn't mean it doesn't have worms as not all worm life cycles involve the flea.
What kind of worms can my dog get from fleas?
Dogs can get tapeworms from fleas, mice, or other rodents. Flea control is an important step in protecting your dog from tapeworms. People rarely are affected by dog tapeworms. Other kinds of worms that dogs can get include heartworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms.
What is the most common internal parasite associated with fleas?
Parasites - Dipylidium Infection (also known as Dog and Cat Flea Tapeworm) Dipylidium is tapeworm of cats and dogs. People become infected when they accidentally swallow a flea infected with tapeworm larvae; most reported cases involve children. Dipylidium infection is easily treated in humans and animals.
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