Intestinal Worms in Dogs & Cats: Myths vs. Facts

Intestinal worms are one of the most common health concerns in dogs and cats, yet are somehow misunderstood by many. Despite being a serious issue, many pet parents still rely on outdated beliefs or hearsay about worms. These misconceptions often lead to unnecessary delays in treatments and life-threatening consequences for our furry companions.

But don’t fret! In this blog, we’ll separate fact from fiction by debunking some of the most widespread myths about intestinal worms in pets. This valuable information will better equip you to protect your four-legged family members.

There’s a lot to cover, so we’re jumping right in!

Debunking Common Myths About Intestinal Worms in Pets

In this segment, we’ll bust some of the myths prevailing among pet parents and  understand the truth behind them.

Myth: I can’t see any worms, so my pet doesn’t have them.

Fact: Even if you can’t see worms with your naked eye, your pet can have worms.

This misconception arises from the fact that other parasites like fleas and ticks are visible to the naked eye. However, it’s not the case with worms. They are microscopic and live inside your pet’s intestines and can go undetected for a long time, silently causing harm.

Myth: My pet stays indoors, so they can’t get worms.

Fact: Your pet can catch worms anywhere, even if they mostly stay indoors.

Indoor pets are still exposed to worms in a variety of situations and factors, such as outdoor play, contaminated soil, outdoor visitors, food, fellow pets, etc. Even puppies can become infected with worms while in their mother’s womb. These parasites can also be transferred to puppies and kittens through their mother’s milk.

Myth: Lungworms rarely infect cats and aren’t that fatal.

Fact: Lungworms can be dangerous for cats.

Although it’s less common than in dogs, cats can still contract lungworms and suffer from serious health issues. These parasites can cause coughing, breathing difficulties, and, in severe cases, life-threatening respiratory issues. Cats typically get lungworms from eating birds, rodents, snails, or reptiles carrying the lungworm parasite.

Myth: People can’t get worms from pets.

Fact: Humans can get some worms from pets.

Certain worms, like roundworms, are zoonotic, meaning they can spread from animals to humans. Children are most at risk of getting infected if they play in contaminated soil and come in contact with infected faeces.

Myth: Heartworm isn’t that fatal in dogs.

Fact: Heartworms can kill your dog if not addressed timely.

Transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito, heartworms live inside your dog and grow up to damage the heart, lungs, and arteries. If left untreated, they can cause severe organ damage and may even lead to death.

Myth: Cats do not need heartworm protection.

Fact: Heartworms can infect both dogs and cats.

Heartworms are not as common in cats as they are in dogs, but they can be severe and fatal if not addressed timely. Caused by mosquito bites, common symptoms of heartworms in cats include weakness, coughing, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or sudden collapse.

Myth: Oesophageal worms are rare in Australia and aren’t that dangerous.

Fact: They are not uncommon and pose a serious threat to dogs.

Oesophageal worms can cause nodules in the wall of the oesophagus, leading to breathing issues and difficulty in swallowing. If not addressed timely, it can become cancerous and spread to other parts of the body. It’s not uncommon, and several cases of oesophageal worms have been diagnosed in recent years. Thus, assuming they are rare can delay the diagnosis and worsen the situation.

Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe Against Intestinal Worms

Here are some preventive measures you can take to keep your pet far from the dangers of intestinal worms.

• Make sure you go for regular vet visits and take timely follow-ups.
• Maintain good hygiene to protect your family and yourself.
• Keep your pet’s environment clean.
• Regularly deworm your pet with veterinarian supervision.
• Consult your vet and administer suitable flea and tick treatments.
• Avoid feeding raw or undercooked meat.
• Maintain monthly heartworm prevention treatment.
• Be aware of the symptoms and promptly relay them to the vet.

Parting Words

Intestinal worms are a serious threat in pets, but not being aware of the myths associated with them can lead to distasteful consequences. We hope that with this blog, we have been able to resolve some of your misconceptions regarding worms. This will only help you be better prepared to assist your beloved pet in their moment of distress.

And always remember, regular check-ups, preventive care, and awareness can ensure your pet lives a safe, healthy, and parasite-free life.