Table of Contents
What are worms in pets?
Where do worms come from?
Signs that your pet has worms
Treating worms in indoor pets
Preventing worms in pets
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How do indoor pets get worms?
- By Hannah
-
- January 28, 2025
- 3 MIN READ
It might seem counterintuitive to worry about your pampered indoor pets contracting worms. After all, they spend most of their time on your sofa, not prowling through muddy fields or chasing squirrels in the park. However, worms love to bother stay-at-home cuddlers, as much as outdoor adventurers. It’s essential that every pet parent knows how worms find their way into your furry friend’s life, how to spot the signs of infestation, and what to do about it.
What are worms in pets?
Worms are parasitic creatures that can badly affect your pet’s health. Common types of worms include roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms. These parasites can vary in size and severity, but they all live inside your pet’s digestive system and steal nutrients from your furball. So, if left untreated, worms can lead to malnutrition, gastrointestinal issues, and even more severe complications like organ damage. The good news is that worms are treatable and preventable - but how do they find your pet?
Where do worms come from?
Despite their lifestyle, pets can pick up worms indoors and outdoors. Here are the most common ways:
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Fleas
Tapeworms are frequently transmitted via fleas. If your pet ingests a flea while grooming themselves, they can unknowingly swallow tapeworm larvae carried by the flea. This is one of the most common ways indoor pets get worms, especially if fleas sneak into your home on your shoes or through open windows.
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Contaminated food or water
Even the cleanest homes can’t completely eliminate the risk of contamination. Roundworms, for instance, can be spread through food or water that has been tainted with microscopic worm eggs. If your pet accidentally consumes a bit of spilled food or drinks from a questionable water source, they could be at risk.
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Soil or grass brought indoors
If you’ve ever noticed mud or grass stuck to your shoes, you’ve seen how easily the outside world makes its way inside. Soil can carry roundworm eggs or hookworm larvae, which can then be ingested or even penetrate your pet’s skin.
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Other animals
Pets don’t need to leave the house to encounter other creatures. Rodents, for example, can bring parasites into your home. Additionally, if you have multiple pets, an infected animal can easily pass worms to their housemates through shared bedding, toys, or bowls.
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Human contact
Yes, you read that correctly. Humans can inadvertently transport worm eggs on their hands, clothing, or shoes. If you’ve been gardening, for instance, and then pet your dog or cat, you might unintentionally expose them to parasites.
Signs that your pet has worms
It’s important to know the signs of worm infestation so you can act quickly. Here are some common symptoms to watch for:
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Changes in appetite: Your pet may seem hungrier than usual or, conversely, may lose interest in food.
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Weight loss: Despite eating normally, your pet might lose weight.
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Scooting: Dragging their bottom on the floor is often a sign of irritation, which can be caused by worms.
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Visible worms or eggs: You might see small, rice-like segments in their stool or around their anus.
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Vomiting or diarrhoea: Gastrointestinal upset can indicate a worm problem.
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Lethargy: If your usually energetic pet seems tired or sluggish, parasites might be to blame.
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Dull coat: A lack of essential nutrients can make your pet’s fur look dull and lifeless.
Treating worms in indoor pets
If you suspect your pet has worms, don’t panic. Worm infestations are common and treatable. Here’s what you should do:
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Treat your pet with worming treatment - Worming treatment can come in the form of tablets, liquids, or topical treatments. We’d recommend buying vet-approved medication that kills all common intestinal worms in your pet, like the Itch Wormer tablets for cats and dogs.
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Treat all pets in you household - If one pet has worms, it’s wise to treat all your pets. Worms are highly contagious, and even asymptomatic animals could be carriers.
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Clean and disinfect - Wash your pet’s bedding, toys, and bowls thoroughly (on a high heat!). Vacuum carpets and floors to remove any lingering eggs or larvae. Regular cleaning will help prevent reinfestation.
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Flea control - Since fleas often carry worm larvae, ensure your pet is on a reliable flea prevention plan, like Itch Flea treatment for cats and dogs. This could include topical treatments, flea collars, or oral medications.
Preventing worms in pets
While no prevention method is foolproof, there are several steps you can take to minimise the risk of worms:
Preventative treatment: To avoid worms, administer worming treatment to your pet at least every 3 months. Try the Itch Wormer tablets for dogs and Itch Wormer tablets for cats, which are tailored to your pet and delivered for free, exactly when you need it.
Good hygiene: Wash your hands after handling soil, cleaning your pet’s litter box, or playing outside.
Keep your home clean: Vacuum regularly and clean food and water dishes daily.
Control fleas: Use vet-approved flea prevention methods every month, like the Itch Flea treatment for dogs and the Itch Flea treatment for cats.
Check in with your vet: Schedule routine checkups to keep an eye on your pet’s health and catch any issues early.
Get rid of fleas, ticks AND lice... and stop them coming back!
Fleas, ticks and lice can be a nightmare, but with the right approach, you can take control and rid your pets and home of these bothersome pests. Remember that parasites can be persistent, so patience and regular treatment will be your best friends! By addressing both your pet and their environment, you can ensure a flea-free and comfortable living space for both your furry companion and your family.
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