Table of Contents
Worming Signs
Worming in Cats
Worming in Dogs
Should Worming Be Done Regularly?
First month flea FREE, just £2.99 P&P
Speedy same day dispatch*
8.5+ million flea & worm packs sold
Tailored to your pet
Blog Home
Flea
Ticks
Worming
Itch News
Itch Insights
How to Know If Your Pet Needs Worming
- By Deanne
-
- March 4, 2024
- 2 MIN READ
Worming is a crucial aspect of pet care which ensures that our furry companions stay healthy and free from the discomfort of worm infestations. As responsible pet owners, it's important to know when our pets need worming and to understand the signs that may indicate the presence of worms. In this post, we'll explore the subtle signs of worm infestations, discuss specific considerations for both cats and dogs, and address the question of whether worming should be done regularly. By the end, you'll have a better understanding of when to take action to keep your pets worm-free and thriving.
Worming Signs
Detecting worm infestations early can prevent discomfort and more serious health issues in your pets. While some pets may not show any symptoms, there are common signs that may indicate the presence of worms:
-
Visible Worms - In some cases, worms may be visible in your pet's faeces, vomit, or around the bum hole (nice!). These can include roundworms, tapeworms, and more - learn about the different types of worms here.
-
Changes in Appetite - An increase or decrease in appetite can be a sign of a worm infestation because some worms absorb nutrients from your pet's body, causing these changes in eating habits.
-
Weight Loss - Despite eating normally, if your pet is losing weight, it could also be due to worms consuming nutrients from their body.
-
Vomiting - Frequent vomiting or the presence of worms in vomit may suggest a worm infestation.
-
Bloated Abdomen - A swollen or distended tummy could be a sign of worms, especially in puppies and kittens!
Worming in Cats
Cats are equally susceptible to worm infestations, and knowing the signs is essential. Cats may show symptoms such as:
-
Coughing - Respiratory worms can cause coughing in cats, especially for those that hunt or spend lots of time in the great outdoors.
-
Visible Worms - Cats may pass worms in their poop, and tapeworm segments may be visible around their bum or bedding.
-
Diarrhoea - Worm infestations can cause digestive upset, leading to diarrhoea or changes in poo consistency.
Worming in Dogs
Dogs too, can be affected by worms, and understanding their signs is crucial for their well-being. Signs of worm infestations in dogs include:
-
Anal Itching - Dogs with worms, particularly tapeworms, may scoot or excessively lick their anal area - tasty!
-
Pot Bellied Appearance - Puppies with worm infestations might have a swollen, pot bellied appearance due to the presence of roundworms, read all about puppy worming here.
-
Lethargy - If your dog seems unusually tired or lethargic, it could be due to the energy drain caused by worms.
Should Worming Be Done Regularly?
Yes! Regular worming is recommended for pets, even if they don't exhibit any signs of infestations. Worms can be present without noticeable symptoms, making regular worming crucial. The frequency of worming depends on various factors, including the pet's age, lifestyle, and risk of exposure. Puppies and kittens should be wormed more frequently, as they are more vulnerable to infestations because of their developing immune systems. Keeping up with a regular worming treatment, like Itch Wormer for dogs and Itch Wormer for cats which kills all common intestinal worms is the best way to protect your pets! Regular veterinary check-ups can also help monitor your pet's health and ensure timely worming.
Recognising the signs that your pet needs worming is a crucial part of responsible pet ownership. From changes in appetite to visible worms and bloated abdomens, staying alert to these signs can lead to early intervention and improved well-being for your furry friends. Whether you have cats or dogs, each species may show different signs of worm infestations, so it's important to know what to look for.
Regular worming, even in the absence of symptoms, is recommended to prevent infestations and ensure your pets remain healthy. Tell us about your pet here for a personalised worming treatment plan based on your pet's age, lifestyle, and risk factors. By taking proactive measures and staying informed, you can provide your pets with the best possible protection against the painful and upsetting symptoms of worm infestations.
SHOP WORMING TREATMENTS
Share
Worming
Identification
What are worms in pets?
Worms are sadly a common concern for pet owners. These parasites can infest our furry companions, leading to discomfort and potential health issues. Here we'll unravel the world of worms in pets, addressing what they are, what causes them, whether all dogs and cats need worming, how to treat worm infestations, and most importantly, how to prevent them. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to keep your pets super healthy and worm-free.
Worming
General
How do pet worming tablets work?
Pet worming tablets are an integral part of maintaining your furry companion's health and well-being. These tiny yet powerful medications play a crucial role in preventing and treating worm infestations in dogs and cats. But have you ever wondered how pet worming tablets work? Look no further as we delve into the world of deworming tablets, exploring their mechanisms, effectiveness, and the options available for both dogs and cats. We'll also address the perennial question of tablets vs. liquid dewormers and explore natural worming alternatives. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of how these treatments work to keep your pets healthy and thriving.
Worming
Treatment
How Often Should You Worm Your Pet?
Intestinal worms are no picnic. They can cause a whole host of health problems in your pets including diarrhoea, tummy pain, weight loss and anaemia. In extreme cases, they can even be fatal. As if that’s not bad enough, they can also do some serious damage to people too! But how often should you worm your pet? The answer depends on various factors, including the type of pet, their age, lifestyle, and risk of exposure. This post explores how often you should worm both cats and dogs. We'll also discuss whether puppies and kittens require more frequent worming and provide some ideal worming schedules to keep your pets healthy and thriving.