Puppy and kitten veterinary care are significant during their first year of life. But dogs and cats of all ages are susceptible to various parasites, including fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms. These parasites can cause serious illness in your pet, so it’s important to take steps to prevent them.

What Are Pet Parasites?

Pet parasites are tiny creatures living off their host’s blood, skin, or organs. Some parasites, like fleas and ticks, are visible to the naked eye. Others, like heartworms and intestinal worms, are too small to see without a microscope.

Parasites can cause a range of problems for your pet, from skin irritation and allergies to more serious illnesses like anemia, organ damage, and even death. That’s why it’s so important to prevent parasites in the first place.

How Do Parasites Get into Pets?

There are a few different ways that parasites can get into your pet. For example, fleas and ticks can hitch a ride on your clothes or hair and jump into your pet when you’re close to them.

Mosquitoes can transmit heartworms to dogs and cats when they bite them. On the other hand, intestinal worms can be passed from mother to puppy or kitten during pregnancy or birth or picked up from the environment, like by eating contaminated soil.

What Are the Symptoms of Parasitism in Pets?

The symptoms of parasitism vary depending on the type of parasite and the animal’s overall health. In general, parasites can cause:

  • Weight loss
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Weakness.

Some parasites also cause anemia, leading to pale gums, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, animals may collapse and die.

Other symptoms include:

  • Seizures
  • Blood in the stool
  • Coughing
  • Difficulty urinating

How to Prevent Parasites in Pets

Here are some ways to prevent parasites in your pets:

  • Cat and dog vaccinations and parasite prevention. Vaccinating your pet against common diseases, including rabies and distemper, can help prevent them from becoming infected with parasites. Vaccines are also available to prevent your pet from becoming infected with heartworm, a parasitic worm in the animal’s heart and lungs. See on this page how it works.
  • Keep your pet clean. Regular bathing and grooming can help remove parasites from your pet’s fur. Use a mild shampoo that won’t irritate your pet’s skin.
  • Check your pet’s stool regularly. Inspecting your pet’s stool for parasites is one of the best ways to prevent an infestation. If you see anything unusual, take your pet to the vet for a checkup.
  • Avoid contaminated areas. Avoid areas where other animals have defecated when you’re out walking your dog. If camping or hiking, boil any water before letting your pet drink it.
  • Regular vet checkups. Taking your animal companion to the vet for regular checkups can help prevent parasites. Your vet can check for parasites and diagnose any problems early. You can also ask your vet about parasite-prevention products, such as spot-on treatments and oral medications.
  • Keep your pet away from other animals. If you are unsure whether another animal has parasites, keeping your pet away from them is best.
  • Use insect repellent. Repellents can help keep insects away from your pet and reduce the risk of them becoming infected with parasites. There are some products available so ask your vet first before using one.
  • Proper nutrition. A healthy diet can help boost your pet’s immune system and prevent parasites. Feed your pet a balanced diet that includes all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids.

The Bottom Line

Pet care involves many aspects, such as providing proper nutrition, exercise, and dental care (see a cat or dog dentist here). It’s also important to prevent parasites, which can cause a range of problems for your pet, from skin irritation and allergies to more severe illnesses like anemia, organ damage, and even death. Consider the tips above to help keep your pet safe from parasites.