Roundworms

Roundworms, or ascarids, are among the most common internal parasites found in puppies and kittens. These spaghetti-like worms live in the host's intestines, feeding on digested food. Pets can become infected by ingesting roundworm eggs from contaminated soil or feces. Puppies and kittens often acquire them from their mothers before birth or through nursing. Symptoms can include a pot-bellied appearance, dull coat, vomiting, diarrhea, and poor growth. In severe cases, a large number of worms can cause an intestinal blockage. Diagnosis is made by identifying eggs in a fecal sample. Regular deworming, especially for young animals, is essential for treatment and prevention, as roundworms can also be transmitted to humans. ## Symptoms - Pot-bellied appearance, especially in puppies and kittens - Spaghetti-like worms in vomit or stool - Diarrhea, vomiting and a dull coat - Poor growth or weight loss - Coughing in young animals as larvae move through the lungs Many adult pets show no signs at all. ## How pets get roundworms Puppies and kittens are often infected before birth or through their mother's milk. Older pets pick them up by swallowing eggs from soil or feces, or by eating infected rodents. ## Treatment Your vet prescribes a dewormer. Puppies and kittens are usually dewormed every 2 weeks from about 2 weeks of age until 8 weeks, then monthly until 6 months. A stool test confirms the infection has cleared. ## Prevention - Pick up stool promptly in yards and litter boxes - Follow your vet's deworming schedule; many monthly heartworm/flea products also cover roundworms - Bring a stool sample to yearly checkups ## Risk to people Roundworm eggs can infect people, especially children who play in soil. Washing hands, covering sandboxes and deworming pets lowers the risk. Source: Companion Animal Parasite Council (capcvet.org), CDC Toxocariasis.