Canine and feline Roundworm!!
What is it and how does your pet get it?
Roundworms are a type of intestinal parasite commonly found
in the digestive tracts of cats and dogs. This parasite can be passed from Dam
to babies during nursing, across the placenta when puppies are in utero or
through the ingestion of contaminated hosts or soil. Soil that has embryonated
(infective) eggs or hosts that have ingested embryonated eggs pass roundworm
infections on to dogs and cats when consumed. Eggs become embryonated after
they have been exposed to the elements. Once the embyonated eggs are ingested
they hatch out and migrate thoughout the body. The adult roundworms can be
found in the small intestines.
Why have fecal examinations on your pet?
Fecal examinations are a great way to detect many intestinal
parasites in your pet. Roundworms are only one of hundreds of intestinal
parasites found in cats and dogs. Fecal examinations look for the microscopic
eggs that are shed by mature adults. You will not always see stool changes if
there is an active infection. It depends on the type of parasite, stage in the
lifecycle of the parasite and number of parasites present and your pets’
sensitivity to the infection.
Why deworm puppies and kittens?
It is known that puppies and kittens can become infected in
utero and puppies can become infected while nursing. If infection is present,
it can affect growth and development of the puppies and kittens. Poor hair
coat, pot-bellied appearance, and in severe cases death may occur. Puppies and
kittens can shed eggs in the environment and then can infect other animals.
When puppies and kittens are dewormed then the lifecycle can be broken.
Not only can roundworm infections affect your pet, but it is
also a zoonotic disease. A zoonotic disease is something that can be
transmitted between humans and animals. Dog and cat Roundworms can cause health
concerns in people, particularly in children. Children tend to play in dirt
that can harbour roundworm eggs and they tend to be less hygienic than adults.
Health concerns in people from dog or cat roundworm can be caused by larva
migrating through tissues in the body.
The parasite can travel through tissues causing inflammation. Many
people may be asymptomatic for infection.
How do we prevent infection?
Regular veterinary care for your dog and cat, including
fecal examinations, strategic deworming and monthly preventatives can help
protect your pet. Stooping and scooping is a good practice to minimize
transmission of many parasites. Eggs can be long lived in the environment. Hand
washing is very important. After handling pets, playing outside and before
preparing or eating food washing hands can decrease transmission to people. Do
not allow your child to eat dirt or play in areas soiled by animals. Covering
children’s sandboxes when not in use can also help prevent infection. Pets are
a great pleasure for people and the risk of transmitting parasites to humans
can be very small if the recommendations are followed.
Lisa, RVT
Bowmanville Veterinary Clinic
