Though many of you may not be aware of it, dogs and cats too are susceptible to tapeworm infection like humans and once infection with the parasite is confirmed treatment should be given promptly.
Tapeworms are usually found in the intestinal wall where they adhere by means of hooks. Both dogs and cats are affected by the same group of tapeworms called as Dipylidium caninum. The worms extend up to 20 cm in length. An adult tapeworm is made up of smaller segments that are 3mm in length. The terminal part gets released into the stool when it matures. These contain the eggs and looks like rice grains. The eggs are passed on to the surrounding environment when the segment becomes dry. Sometimes these segments are found sticking to the skin around the anus region of the dog.
The mode of entry of the parasite is through the fleas that get ingested by the dog. Dogs usually swallow some of the fleas while biting or chewing the flea affected part. The fleas ingest the tapeworm when they are in larval stage from carpets or bedding that is contaminated with the parasite. The eggs in the fleas hatch once they are inside the dog and stick to their intestine.
Tapeworm infections are not as such harmful to a great extent but should be treated as they rob the dog of essential nutrients and can cause debilitation and weight loss if present in large amounts. Mostly these worms are not seen when they are passed out in the stools. Occasionally, the tapeworm gets into the stomach region and causes irritation to the stomach lining. This can lead to vomiting and in such cases you can see the long tapeworms.
Though they cannot be detected easily, a stool examination will help you. If you suspect your dog to have tapeworm infection you can approach your pet’s veterinarian who will suggest fecal examination. If the tapeworm presence is confirmed drugs are administered either orally or systemically. The drugs used are very effective and most often the infection is completely cured. They kill the parasite in the intestine itself and it gets dissolved which is why they are not visible in the stools.
To prevent further infection you have to take stringent flea control measures and keep the surroundings as well as your house clean. If flea control is not done properly the dog is under great risk of getting infected again.
Humans too are under risk of getting the infection, especially children who play around in the areas used by the dog. But generally, humans do not get the infection from the dog. Children should be restricted from playing in areas that are infection prone and you should take measures to clean up your yard and house thoroughly to prevent flea infestation.
Make sure both your indoor and outdoor areas are cleaned of fecal matter. Consult with the dog’s veterinarian about the various control measures you can use to prevent your pet from getting infected again. There are over the counter drugs too that can be used to treat the tapeworm infection in dogs and cats.
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