Tuesday, October 6, 2009

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Tapeworms in dogs and cats Tapeworms are a commonly diagnosed intestinal parasite of dogs and cats. Tapeworms are segmented worms that attach themselves to the intestinal wall of the dog or cat. There are two types of tapeworms that commonly infect dogs and cats — the Taenia species and Dipyllidium caninum (the flea tapeworm), the most common of the two being Dipyllidium caninum. n How are tapeworms transmitted to dogs and cats? Dogs and cats become infected with Dipyllidium tapeworms by ingesting fleas. When a pet has become infested with fleas they can sometimes accidentally ingest fleas while they groom themselves. If the flea that is ingested is infected with tapeworms, then the dog or cat can then become infected. The Taenia species of tapeworm can be transmitted to a dog or cat that eats undercooked or raw meat, such as rats, mice, and livestock. n How are tapeworms diagnosed in our pets? During a fecal (stool) examination performed by your pet's veterinarian, tapeworm eggs can be visualized microscopically. A great number of times however, tapeworm segments (which resemble grains of rice) can be seen around the anus, under the tail or in the feces of the infected dog or cat. n What are the symptoms of tapeworm infections in dogs and cats? If the tapeworm infection is severe, the animal may suffer from weight loss, loss of appetite, diarrhea and/or discomfort from abdominal pain. Sometimes the pet can be seen dragging or scooting their anus across the floor as well. In most cases however, the infected pet does not exhibit any clinical signs other than passing the segments in the feces. Most pet owners will take their pet to the veterinarian because they have observed tapeworms in the animals' stool. n How are tapeworms treated? The medications used to treat tapeworms is dependent on the type of tapeworm infecting the animal. Some of the most common medications used to treat tapeworms include, but are not limited to Droncit, Dronal Plus, Cestex and Panacur. Your veterinarian will prescribe the appropriate medication for your pet. n How are tapeworm infections prevented? The best way to prevent tapeworm infections is by practicing adequate flea control. By restraining pets from hunting and not allowing ingestion of raw or undercooked meals is also necessary to prevent the spread of tapeworms to dogs and cats. n Can pet owners get tapeworms from a dog or cat? Though it is not impossible for pet owners and other people to get tapeworms, they usually do not become infected directly from a pet. In order for a person to become infected with tapeworms, the person needs to ingest undercooked (or raw) meat which contains tapeworms. Undercooked beef or pork are the most likely culprits in the transmission of tapeworms to people and it is the Taenia species of tapeworms which people can become infected with in this manner. To have your pet questions answered, send an e-mail to purrfectpets1@gmail.com or call Dr. Bridgette Johnson at 364-8101. Monday, September 7, 2009