Worms In A Multi-Pet Household

Types of worms

• Roundworms - The most prevalent worms, particularly in puppies and kittens. They look like spaghetti and can grow several inches long. They can cause significant health problems like malnutrition and intestinal blockage.

• Tapeworms - Resembling small grains of rice, these worms are usually found around your pet’s bum or in their faeces. They often cause weight loss and discomfort, but are less likely to cause severe illness.

• Hookworms - About the size of a paperclip, these worms are much smaller but still have a bite! As they attach to the intestinal lining and feed on your pet’s blood, hookworms cause anaemia and malnutrition.

• Whipworms - These are less common but still a concern. They live in the large intestine and can cause severe damage to the intestinal walls, leading to bloody diarrhoea and weight loss.

How to treat worms:

If worms happen to make their way into your household and infect your pets, here’s how you should treat them:

• Worming tablets: Giving your pets worming tablets on a regular dose, will kill the worms wriggling around inside your furballs and prevent newly hatched larvae from growing and multiplying. Try the Itch Wormer for Dogs or the Itch Wormer for Cats to protect your pet regularly from common intestinal worms.

• Multiple treatments: In some cases, multiple treatments might be necessary to ensure all worms and their eggs are eradicated. For example, using worming tablets and oral worming treatment. Roundworms and tapeworms tend to need more multiple treatments as they have complex life cycles.

• Tender loving care: Pets suffering from severe infestations will need lots of care and support to treat their symptoms. These symptoms might be dehydration, anaemia, or malnutrition. Chat to your vet and ask for supplementary treatments such as fluids, nutritional support, or medications to treat any concerning symptoms.

• Isolation: If one pet is infected, it’s wise to give them some alone time from your other pets  whilst you treat them and get them back to their happy and healthy self. This will reduce the spread of worms and a full infestation in your home. TIP! Keep on top of cleaning, make sure their bedding and living areas are cleaned often and kept hygienic.

How to prevent worms:

It would be nice to not have to handle a worm infestation in your multi-pet household. So be proactive and follow these steps to protect your pets:

• Regular de-worming - Ensure your pets are on regular deworming schedules, with a dose that supports their age and weight. Remember, puppies and kittens need to be dewormed more frequently, while adult pets often need treating every three months.

• Clean up after your pet - Always pick up your dog’s poop (both in your garden or on a walk) or regularly clean your cat’s litter tray. This helps prevent the spread of worm eggs.

• Regular vet check-ups - Routine visits to the vets will detect any early signs of worms and your pets can receive necessary treatment.