Worm Watch: What You Need to Look Out For
March 14, 2025
Worms are a common problem for dogs and cats, but they can be easily treated when caught early. In this article, our team at Rowan Vets are sharing what you need to know about worms in cats and dogs below. If, after reading our article, you have any questions about worming your dog or cat, get in touch with our friendly veterinary team in Preston.
Health signs of worms to watch for
Rowan Vets’ team share that the most common signs of worms in pets include:
- Weight loss: Worms can interfere with your pet’s ability to absorb nutrients, leading to weight loss.
- Dry or dull fur: Worms can also affect the condition of your pet’s fur, making it look dry or dull.
- Increased or decreased appetite: Some worms can cause your pet to feel hungrier than usual, while others can make them lose their appetite.
- Vomiting or diarrhoea: Worms can irritate the lining of your pet’s stomach or intestines, leading to vomiting or diarrhoea.
- Scooting: Pets with worms may drag their bottoms along the ground to try to relieve the itching caused by the worms.
- Visible worms or eggs: In some cases, you may be able to see worms or eggs in your pet’s faeces or vomit.
Where pets pick up worms from
Rowan Vets’ team advise that pets can pick up worms from a variety of sources, including:
- Other animals: Worms can be spread from one animal to another through contact with contaminated faeces or saliva.
- The environment: Worm eggs can survive in the environment for months or even years, so pets can pick them up by walking on contaminated ground or eating contaminated food.
- Fleas: Some types of worms, such as tapeworms, can be spread by fleas.
- Mother to offspring: Puppies and kittens can be born with worms if their mother is infected.
- Slugs and snails: Lungworm, which can be fatal, is picked up from pets eating or licking infected slugs or snails.
What to do if you think your pet has worms
If you think your pet has worms, it is important to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. Book an appointment at out vet practice in Preston where one of our vets will be able to prescribe the appropriate medication or administer treatment.
Prevention
According to Rowan Vets’ team, the best way to protect your pet from worms is to prevent them from becoming infected in the first place. Here are some tips to help prevent worms:
- Give your pet regular wormers: Talk to our vets in Preston about how often you should deworm your pet.
- Keep your pet’s environment clean: Regularly clean up your pet’s faeces and dispose of them properly.
- Use flea and tick prevention: Fleas can transmit some types of worms, so it is important to use a vet-recommended flea and tick preventative product on your pet.
- Don’t let your pet eat raw meat: Raw meat can contain worm eggs, so it is important to cook meat thoroughly before feeding it to your pet.
Worms are a common problem for pets, but they can be easily treated if caught early. By knowing the signs of worms and how to prevent them, you can help keep your pet healthy and happy. If you have any questions about worming your dog or cat, get in touch with our veterinary team in Preston.
