Why is it Important for Columbus Residents to Deworm Puppies and Kittens
At Hamilton Road Animal Hospital in Columbus, our cat and dog veterinarians offer quality all-ages animal care. Today we wanted to share with you the signs of intestinal worms that your pet may show and why it is important that you deworm your pets, especially puppies and kittens.
Signs of Worms in Dogs and Cats
If your dog or cat has worms, they may act differently than a healthy pet. Signs of worms or intestinal parasites in dogs and cats include lethargy, weight loss, dull hair coat, decreased appetite, diarrhea and vomiting. Puppies and kittens may have a distended stomach, which you will be able to see. Our veterinary team will request that you bring in a stool sample if you think your pet has worms, as this can help us diagnose the type of worm that your pet may have.
If you notice these symptoms, it is important that you bring your pet to us right away. Worms are much easier to treat when the infection is mild than when it is full blown. Your pets may also infect other dogs and cats in the household and even people in some cases.
Worms are common in kittens and puppies, so do not worry too much if your pets have worms. You did not do anything wrong! Yet these young animals are more vulnerable to the effects of intestinal parasites than adult pets. If the mother cat or dog has worms, she can pass these on to her offspring.
How Our Columbus Veterinarians Treat Worms
The best offense is a strong defense for many things, but this is also true for worms. Our Columbus veterinarians encourage you to take your puppies and kittens to our veterinary practice for regular health checkups and deworming medications. By administering deworming medication, our veterinary care providers can kill any adult worms that have hatched. Since most worm medications only kill adult worms, several treatments may be needed.
If you think that your puppy or kitten has worms, please take them and a stool sample to our animal hospital so our veterinarian can exam them and administer the appropriate medication. To make an appointment for deworming or anything else, please email our animal hospital at [email protected] or call us at 614-239-0027.