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    5. Roundworms

Roundworms

Roundworms

What are roundworms?
Roundworms are live intestinal worms that live in the intestines and deprive their hosts of nutrients. On average they are about 3-5 inches. Roundworms, sometimes called ascarids, pass moderate numbers of microscopic eggs which are found in the pet's stool. Like hookworm eggs, they must be found with a microscope. They do not attach to the wall of the intestine, as do some worms. Instead, they are literally swim within the intestine.

  • If left, roundworms will continue to grow and multiply and may block the intestinal track completely.
  • If left untreated they can pose a serious risks for young dogs/cats and puppies/kittens.
  • They can be an important cause of illness, and even death, in kittens.

    • How are Roundworms are transmitted? Puppies/Kittens born to mothers that have had roundworms at any time in the past can transmit them to their litter before birth.

  • More than 90% of puppies are born with roundworms or acquire them shortly after birth from their mother. Both litter and adult mothers may become infected by swallowing roundworm eggs which contain infective larvae. The larvae hatch out in the dog's stomach and small intestine and migrate through the muscle, liver, and lungs. After several weeks, the larvae make their way back to the intestine to mature. When these worms begin to reproduce, new eggs will pass in the pet's stool, and the life cycle of the parasite is completed.

  • Roundworm eggs are resilent and can survive in areas such as parks, playgrounds and yards. Obviously, roundworm eggs passed in one pet's stool may be infectious to other animals. Interestingly, a large number of other animal species have been found to harbor roundworms and represent potential sources of infection for dogs. These include cockroaches, earthworms, chickens, and rodents.

    • Signs of Roundworm Infection
  • Diarrhea
  • Malnutrition
  • Respiratory distress
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weakness
  • Weight Loss
  • Dull, scruffy fur
  • Swollen abdomen ("pot belly")


    • How are Roundworms treated? Treatment is quite simple. Several very safe and effective drugs are available to kill roundworms in the intestine. Some of these drugs temporarily anesthetize the worms so that they pass out of the dog with a normal bowel movement. The live or dead worms are found in the stool. Because of their large size, they are easily seen.

    Dewormers: Dewormers help remove parasites from your pet. It is important to give regular dewormer treatments to your dog and cats. It is recommended at least once every six months. We carry a great variety of effective deworming medications at low prices. We offer pet deworming products for Roundworms, Hookworms, Whipworms & Tapeworms. Buy worm treatment medicine and remove the worms in your pet with prescription and non-prescription pet medications.

    Shop for deworming products here
    Recommended Dewormers
    Pyrantel Pamoate Wormer by Qualitest. Nemex-2 (16 fl oz)
    Nemex-2 Wormer by Pfizer: 2 oz (60 mL) Worm Protector 2X Double Strength


    Are Roundworms a danger to me or my family? Roundworms can be a health risk for humans. The most common source of human infection is by ingesting eggs that have come from soil contaminated with cat (or dog) feces. As many as 10,000 cases of roundworm infection in humans have been reported in one year in the United States. Children, in particular, are at risk for health problems should they become infected. A variety of organs may be affected as the larvae migrate through the body. In suitable environments, the eggs may remain infective to humans and pets for years.

    What can be done to control Roundworm infection in dogs and to prevent human infection?

  • Pregnant queens should be dewormed in late pregnancy to reduce potential contamination of the environment for newborn litters.

  • All new litters should be treated by 2-3 weeks of age. To effectively break the roundworm life cycle, litters should be dewormed on the schedule recommended by your veterinarian.

  • Prompt deworming should be given when any parasites are detected; periodic deworming may be appropriate for pets at high risk for reinfection. Adult dogs and cats remain susceptible to reinfection with roundworms throughout their lives.

  • Pets with predatory habits should have a fecal examination several times a year. Rodent control is desirable since rodents may serve as a source of roundworm infection for dogs.

  • Prompt disposal of all pet feces is important, especially in yards, playgrounds, and public parks.

  • Strict hygiene is especially important for children. Do not allow children to play in potentially contaminated environments.