Clayton Animal Hospital Roundworms

Roundworms are among the most
common intestinal parasites in dogs
and cats. Puppies are often infected in
the womb from their infected mothers.
Both kittens and puppies can be
infected shortly after birth from eggs
shed in their mother's milk. After
larvae mature in these animals,
puppies and kittens begin to shed
eggs in their feces, exposing other
animals and humans to infection when
ingested.

Roundworm infestation can result in
serious medical conditions in both
animals and humans. Animals may
develop vomiting, diarrhea, and
pneumonia due to parasite migration
throughout the body. Large
infestations may result in partial or
complete obstruction of the intestinal
tract. When roundworms infect
humans, parasite migration through
the body can cause fever, nausea,
difficulty breathing, and even loss of
vision in some cases. Young animals
and children are at most at risk.

Roundworm infection can be
diagnosed and treated by your
veterinarian when a fresh stool sample
is examined under the microscope.
The key to prevention is good
hygiene. Do not give young animals or
infants the opportunity to ingest feces
which may contain roundworm eggs.
Cover children's sandboxes when not
in use to prevent neighborhood cats
from contaminating play areas. Shortly
after acquiring a new puppy or kitten,
make an appointment with your
veterinarian to avoid contamination of
your home. Certain heartworm
medications, though they will not cure
an infected animal, will prevent
re-infestation. When purchasing a
new puppy or kitten, ask your breeder
about the animal's deworming
schedule. We encourage breeders to
discuss strategic deworming
programs with their veterinarian. If you
have further questions about
roundworms or other intestinal
parasites, consult your veterinarian.