Worms in pets

Worms in pets are a common health issue affecting many dogs and cats. While they’re often easy to treat, intestinal parasites can cause discomfort, illness, and in some cases serious health complications if left untreated.

The good news is that worms in pets are highly preventable with regular care, routine treatments, and veterinary guidance. Understanding how pets get worms, the signs to look for, and how to protect them can help keep your pet healthy and thriving.

What are worms in pets?

Worms in pets are internal parasites that live in the digestive system (and in some cases, other organs). They survive by feeding off nutrients from your pet, which can impact overall health.

The most common types of worms in pets include:

• Roundworms: Common in puppies and kittens, often causing a pot-bellied appearance
• Tapeworms: Spread through fleas and visible as small rice-like segments
• Hookworms: Can cause anaemia, especially in young animals
• Whipworms: More common in dogs and linked to digestive upset
• Heartworms: Spread by mosquitoes and affect the heart and lungs

Each type requires specific treatment, which is why accurate diagnosis is important.

How do pets get worms?

Pets can pick up worms in a variety of ways, even if they spend most of their time indoors.

Common sources include:

• Contact with contaminated soil or faeces
• Ingesting fleas during grooming
• Hunting or eating infected prey
• Transmission from mother to puppy or kitten
• Mosquito bites (heartworm transmission in dogs)

Because exposure can happen so easily, prevention is essential for all pets.

Signs of worms in pets

The signs of worms in pets can vary depending on the type and severity of the infestation.

Common symptoms include:

• Diarrhoea or vomiting
• Weight loss or poor growth
• A bloated abdomen (especially in young pets)
• Scooting or dragging their bottom
• Visible worms in faeces or around the anus
• Dull coat or low energy
• Coughing (in some cases)

Some pets may show very mild or no symptoms, which is why regular worming is so important.

Treating worms in pets

Worm treatment for cats and dogs is usually simple and effective when guided by a veterinarian. Treatment depends on the type of worm and may include:

• Oral tablets or liquids
• Spot-on treatments
• All-in-one parasite prevention products

It’s important to use vet-recommended treatments, as not all products cover every type of worm.

Deworming schedule for pets

Following a consistent deworming schedule for pets is key to preventing infestations and protecting their long-term health.

General guidelines often include:

• Puppies and kittens: Every 2 weeks until 12 weeks of age
• Up to 6 months: Monthly treatments
• Adult pets: Every 3 months (or as advised by your vet)
• Heartworm prevention (dogs): Monthly preventative

Young animals are especially vulnerable, so early and consistent treatment is essential.

Preventing worms in pets

Preventing worms in pets is much easier than treating them after an infestation.

Simple steps to protect your pet include:

• Keeping up with a regular deworming schedule
• Using year-round flea prevention
• Cleaning up faeces promptly
• Washing hands after handling pets or waste
• Avoiding raw or undercooked meat in their diet
• Attending regular veterinary check-ups

Some worms can also be passed to humans, so good hygiene and preventative care are important for the whole household.

Book an appointment

If you’re concerned about worms in your pet or need advice on the right prevention plan, our experienced veterinary team is here to help.

Call 03 9382 3021 or book an appointment online and keep your pet protected year-round.