Tapeworms are an intestinal parasite that can be found in both cats and dogs. While they can be difficult to diagnose, especially in early stages, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of tapeworms in order to ensure your pet gets the treatment they need. In this blog post, we will cover the common signs and symptoms of tapeworms in dogs, as well as the steps you should take if you suspect your pet has contracted the parasite. Tapeworms are caused by ingesting the fleas that carry the tapeworm eggs, so it is important to be diligent about flea control for your pet, in order to prevent tapeworms in the first place. Tapeworms can also be contracted through contact with wild animals or ingestion of other animals. While tapeworms are not typically life-threatening, if left untreated, they can cause serious health problems, including malnutrition and weight loss. Therefore, it is
How to Tell if Your Dog Has Tapeworms
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the proglottid segments can sometimes be seen crawling near the anus or on the surface of fresh waste. These eggs are released into the environment when the proglottid dries out. The dried proglottids can sometimes be seen stuck to your dog’s fur.
If your dog drags his paws across the ground, a rug, or any other rough surface, that is another indication that they are infested with worms. This is because the segments are causing his skin to become irritated. Your dog may be seen biting or licking the area. Occasionally, when your dog throws up, a piece of the tapeworm will come out.
Although dogs hardly ever get sick from tapeworm infestations, they can cause weight loss if they are severely infected.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Tapeworms in Dogs?
Dogs frequently do not exhibit symptoms of infection for a long time, but if you know what to look for, you can still identify them.
Are Tapeworms Contagious for Humans or Other Pets?
Tapeworms can be contagious for humans and other pets. Dipylidium caninum, a parasite that can spread to other household dogs through the intermediate flea host, is a disease that humans rarely get because it requires ingesting fleas.
Cats can contract some species of tapeworms, like taenia species. These parasites are contracted by eating infected prey or feces. Consult your vet about your cat’s potential risk of contracting the parasite if your dog has a taenia tapeworm, especially if your cat is a skilled hunter.
Humans can also contract echinococcus species of tapeworms. These tapeworms, which are smaller than taenia or dipylidium tapeworms, can lead to hydatidosis in people, which manifests as liver cysts.
Even though it’s uncommon, maintaining good hygiene and avoiding eating raw or undercooked meat will lower your risk of getting tapeworms from your dog.
FAQ
What are the signs of tapeworm in dogs?
- Weight loss even when eating normally.
- Lethargy.
- Distended abdomen.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Dull coat.
- Visual evidence of tapeworms.
Can tapeworms go away on their own dogs?
NO! People may mistakenly believe that because worms are typically harmless to humans, they are probably also harmless to dogs and that they can easily get rid of them. Dogs cannot get rid of worms themselves. Medical assistance will be required to some extent.
How do you check for tapeworms?
Stool sample analysis. Your doctor may examine your stool or send samples to a laboratory for testing if you have an intestinal tapeworm infection. Your feces are examined in a lab using microscopic identification methods to look for eggs or segments of tapeworms.
How do you get rid of tapeworms in dogs?
Dogs with tapeworms can be treated with the parasiticide praziquantel. This medication is weight-based and offered both orally and intravenously. Praziquantel causes the adult tapeworms to separate from the intestinal wall once it is administered.