Nobody wants to hear that their pet might contract an intestinal parasite and most likely will in their lives. Most pet owners would rather not speak about it, but it’s vital to be aware of the basics since parasites in the gut can cause serious health problems. These are the facts you should know about intestinal parasites.

What Are Intestinal Parasites?

Intestinal parasites are worms that parasitize the body and reside inside the digestive tract (GI). Roundworms, tapeworms, whipworms and hookworms are some of the most common parasites in the intestinal tract. Depending on your pet’s age and the infection’s seriousness, the worms may be of different sizes and cause various diseases.

Signs and Symptoms

Depending on your pet’s infection, the symptoms may be various. When puppies and kittens have roundworms, they usually look like they have a pot belly. Bloody stools, diarrhea, weight loss, and anemia can identify the illness. However, the pets typically only show signs once they’re very sick. Some animals show signs of lack of energy, dull coat, vomiting often, and an appearance of bloatedness. Watch out for these signs because these are crucial indicators of intestinal parasites.

Since most parasites don’t produce eggs, you can’t tell the presence of a parasite through the sight of worms. Only by inspecting feces for larvae can a diagnosis be determined. It is best to consult a veterinary in Tucson, AZ for more information.

Stage of Infection

Roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms can be transmitted when your pet eats the larvae found in rodents, dog feces, or an affected flea. Hookworms dig holes in the skin of your pet so that they can lay eggs.

Danger to Pet

Roundworms may cause puppies and kittens to grow too slowly. Hookworms can lead to anemia, which can cause death. The infection of any parasite can cause swelling and problems with the immune system. If your pet already has some health issue, like diabetes, the parasite infection could worsen it. These parasites may stop major organ systems and kill pets should you not get rid of them.

Transmittable to Other Pets

Parasites in the intestinal tract can be transmitted to other animals and people. Since they are primarily found in the digestive tract, eggs or larvae are passed into the poop. The infective larvae live within the soil around the feces, making it possible for other dogs and kids to eat them and get sick accidentally.

Treatment

Treatment is contingent on the nature of the infection and its severity. Veterinarians may prescribe antibiotics and a drug that kills parasites. If your pet suffers from an illness that is persistent in the future, it will require special care to prevent getting sick again. This is because recontamination from the environment and infection can occur at any time. Depending on the severity, sometimes surgery is also performed. To know more, you may contact professional pet surgeons in Tucson, AZ for more information.

Protection

Deworming routinely, dog and cat vaccinations are the easiest and cheapest ways to keep your pet from getting a parasitic infection that can last for a long time. Also, keep your dog far from busy or public areas like sandboxes or trails for walking, as well as dog parks. As for you, washing your hands before eating and avoiding walking outside in sandals can help avoid parasites.

Conclusion

It’s unpleasant to think about the eventuality that your pet, or a family member, has intestinal parasites. If you’re lucky, you’ll be better prepared to handle the unwelcome guests at your pet’s home after you’ve learned the basics. Quickly get your pet to the vet if you suspect they might have an infection. It’s recommended to contact your vet immediately should you be concerned about parasites and the infections they may cause. So, we can protect our pets the way we defend ourselves.