What Every Pet Owner Should Know About Roundworms & Hookworms...

What are roundworms and hookworms?

Roundworms and hookworms are intestinal parasites that can live and grow inside the intestine of your pet. While most pets show no sign of infection, some may have vomiting, loss of appetite, or severe weight loss, which may be fatal to young kittens or puppies.

How do pets get worms?

Dogs and cats can get worms at any age, but they most commonly are passed from the mother at birth or through her milk.

Can roundworms and hookworms infect people?

Yes. Infected dogs and cats can contaminate their surroundings by passing eggs and larvae through their feces. People can then unknowingly come in contact with contaminated soil or plant life.

How do roundworms and hookworms harm people?

In most cases, roundworms cause no symptoms or apparent damage. However, in some cases the larvae, which travel through the liver, lungs, and other organs, can cause tissue damage or nerve damage to the eye. Hookworm larvae typically travel within the skin, causing inflammation, but one type can penetrate into deeper tissues, causing more serious damage to the intestine and other organs.

Talk to your veterinarian about treatment for your pet, and take the following steps to protect your pet and family from worm infections:

• Have puppies and kittens dewormed by your vet
• Start or keep your pets on a preventative treatment program
• Learn to recognize and avoid contaminated soil, plants, etc.
• Keep play areas, lawns, and gardens free of animal waste (bag & dispose of pet feces and cover sandboxes when not in use)
• Obey leash laws

For more information on safe and healthy pet, see the healthy pets web pages from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.