Pet Parasite Control

Parasite prevention for dogs and cats is a year-round job and vital for keeping them safe, happy, and healthy. Why? Because heartworms, fleas, ticks, and other parasites can cause serious health problems for our pets. At Riverbark Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you understand the risks parasites pose and guide you on how to protect your pet.

Common Types of Dog and Cat Parasites

Parasites in pets fall into two categories: external and internal. External parasites hide in your dog or cat’s coat or skin, while internal parasites live inside their body. Whether inside or out, parasites can make pets sick and even spread diseases to humans.

Common External Parasites

Different types of external parasites that your dogs or cats can get include:

• Fleas
• Ticks
• Ear Mites

Common Internal Parasites

Different types of cat worms and dog worms that your pet can contract include:

• Heartworm
• Hookworm
• Roundworm
• Tapeworm
• Whipworm
• Lungworm
• Giardia

Signs and diagnosis of parasites in dogs and cats

External Parasite Symptoms

• Fleas: Itching, scratching, hair loss, red or irritated skin, flea dirt (tiny black specks) on skin
• Ticks: Ticks on skin, localized swelling or redness, lethargy, lameness, fever (if infected with tick-borne diseases)
• Mites: Intense itching, hair loss, scabs, head shaking (ear mites)

Internal Parasite Symptoms

• Roundworms: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, coat in bad condition, potbelly in young animals, slow growth
• Tapeworms: Appear in feces. Dogs may scoot or lose weight; cats may experience weight loss and vomiting. Pets often don't show symptoms of tapeworms.
• Hookworms: Anemia, bloody diarrhea, weight loss. Severe in young animals.
• Whipworms (primarily dogs): Bloody diarrhea, weight loss
• Heartworms: Coughing, fatigue, weight loss, heart failure
• Giardia: vomiting, diarrhea

You often cannot see feline and canine parasites, which is why microscopic examination of the feces is necessary. If you suspect your pet has intestinal parasites, bring in a fresh fecal sample for evaluation.

To determine if your dog or cat has worms, we first test a fecal sample. Our veterinary team will check it under a microscope to detect any parasites.

Cat and dog parasite treatment and prevention

Consistent use of preventative medication

Our vets will recommend the best flea, tick, and heartworm preventative medication for your pet's specific health needs. To ensure they stay protected, it’s important to give these medications consistently and year-round.

Regularly monitoring pet symptoms

We'll help keep an eye on your pet’s health and regularly check for parasite symptoms in your dog or cat.

Practicing good hygiene at home

To lower the risk of parasites, clean your pet’s bedding, food, and water bowls often. Also, be sure to pick up your dog’s waste in your yard and on walks, and always wash your hands afterward. This helps protect your pets and family members from worms and parasites!

Regular veterinary check-ups

Routine check-ups can help catch parasites or infections early. To talk with one of our vets about preventing parasites, call (910) 436-4801 or book an appointment online below.