As a pet parent, understanding the risks and prevention of worms in your pet is crucial for their health and well-being. 

In this comprehensive guide we’ll explore the different types of worms, how they affect pets, and the best ways to prevent and treat infestations naturally and conventionally.

Prevalence and Risk Factors

The prevalence of intestinal parasites varies across Europe, with roundworms being the most common. In Ireland, for example, 17.6% of dogs and 23.2% of cats were found to have roundworms. Tapeworms affect less than 7% of both dogs and cats.

It’s important to note that stray animals generally have a higher prevalence of intestinal parasites compared to owned pets. Additionally, puppies and kittens are more susceptible to worm infestations.

Common Types of Worms in Pets

1. Roundworms (Toxocara spp.)

Roundworms are one of the most prevalent intestinal parasites affecting both dogs and cats worldwide1. These long, white, spaghetti-like worms can cause significant health issues, especially in puppies and kittens.

• Infection: Pets can contract roundworms by ingesting infected eggs from the environment or through prey like mice. Puppies and kittens may also be infected prenatally or via their mother’s milk.
• Symptoms: Mild cases may go unnoticed, but moderate infestations can cause vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, and a dull coat. Severe cases may lead to developmental delays and even death.
• Zoonotic Risk: Humans, especially children, can contract roundworms through contaminated soil. Humans cannot become infected from dog faeces or from touching infected dogs‘ fur because the eggs are not infectious, they need to mature first.

2. Hookworms (Ancylostoma, Uncinaria spp.)

Hookworms are another common parasite, with different species prevalent in various parts of Europe.

• Infection: Pets can become infected through oral ingestion of larvae from the environment, percutaneous (through the skin), via paratenic hosts (mice) or transmission via their mother’s milk.
• Symptoms: In mild cases, there may be no signs. In severe cases, hookworms can cause anemia (rare), diarrhea, and failure to thrive in puppies.
• Zoonotic Risk: none in Europe

3. Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum, Echinococcus spp.)

Tapeworms, such as the flea tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum), are widespread intestinal parasites affecting dogs and, less commonly, cats.

• Infection: Pets become infected by ingesting fleas carrying tapeworm larvae.
• Symptoms: Often asymptomatic, but in some cases, pets may experience itching around the anus, weight loss, or diarrhea.
• Zoonotic Risk: Rare in humans but possible through accidental ingestion of infected fleas.

4. Lungworms (Angiostrongylus vasorum)

Lungworm is an increasingly prevalent parasitic infection in dogs across Europe, including Ireland. This parasite poses serious health risks and can even be fatal if left untreated. 

• Infection: Eating slugs or snails carrying lungworm larvae, chewing grass or drinking from puddles contaminated with slug or snail slime trails,ingesting larvae present on outdoor water bowls.
• Symptoms: Depending on the severity of the infection: some dogs may show subtle signs initially, such as fatigue or reduced appetite, others show persistent coughing, breathing difficulties, bruising, nosebleeds, severe cases may lead to brain hemorrhages.
• Zoonotic Risk: This parasite is highly host-specific and does not pose a direct threat to humans.

How to Prevent Worm Infestations in Pets

1. Prevent Exposure to Worms
   • Avoid allowing pets to eat wild prey such as mice or slugs and snails.
   • Avoid feeding raw meat without prior freezing (-17°C for 1 week)
   • Clean up pet feces promptly to prevent reinfection.
   • Regularly check for and control flea infestations to reduce the risk of tapeworm transmission.
   • Regularly clean outdoor water bowls to remove slug/snail slime trails.
2. Support Your Pet’s Immune System
   • Feed a balanced diet with high-quality proteins and sufficient fiber to support gut health.
   • Supplement with key nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins A and D.
   • Reduce exposure to environmental toxins and unnecessary medications that can weaken immune function.
3. Routine Feacal Testing
   • A feacal worm egg count should be performed once or twice a year to monitor parasite levels.
   • This is particularly important for pets that spend time outdoors or are frequently exposed to other animals.

Treatment Options

While prevention is key, sometimes treatment becomes necessary. Here are some options:

• Herbal Remedies: Some herbs, such as pumpkin seeds and wormwood, have been traditionally used to expel worms. (For safe dosages, click here for my free download on natural dewormers.) 
• Probiotics and Prebiotics: Help strengthen the gut barrier and make the environment less hospitable for parasites.
• Propolis: A bee product known for its antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties, which can support gut health in worm-infested pets.

• Conventional dewormers: For severe infestations or certain types of worms (lungworms!), conventional medical treatment is unavoidable. Some of the safest options include: Panacur (Fenbendazole): A well-tolerated dewormer with minimal side effects, Mebendazole (Vermox, DeWorm): Effective against various worms with mild gastrointestinal side effects, Drontal Plus: A broad-spectrum dewormer that is generally safe when used as directed.

The Growing Concern of Dewormer Resistance

Overuse of dewormers can lead to anthelmintic resistance, meaning the medications may become less effective over time. This is already a major issue in livestock and is beginning to affect companion animals. To help prevent resistance:

• Only deworm pets when necessary, based on fecal test results.
• Rotate different classes of dewormers instead of using the same one repeatedly.
• Use natural preventatives to reduce reliance on synthetic medications.

Final Thoughts

Worms are an unavoidable part of a pet’s life, but with proper prevention and timely treatment, you can keep your furry friend safe and healthy. Whether you choose natural remedies, conventional medications, or a combination of both, staying informed and proactive is the key to managing parasites effectively.

For a more detailed guide on natural worm prevention and treatments, download my free PDF on holistic deworming strategies here!