Tapeworms

 

What are tapeworms?

Tapeworms are long and flat (sometimes several feet), made up of many segments and live in the small intestine of dogs, cats, domestic animals and wildlife. Tapeworms do not have a mouth, and instead hold onto the inside of the intestine with suckers. Some also have hooks that strengthen their attachment.

How does infection occur?

Pets are commonly infected with tapeworms through the ingestion of fleas in the process of normal grooming, licking or chewing. Pets can ingest the eggs or larvae directly, through copraphagia (eating of fecal waste), or by eating rodents or other animals. Humans get the parasite from ingesting tapeworm eggs from infected fecal material.

How do I know if my pet is infected?

Most commonly, pet parents will notice tapeworm segments (pieces of the worm passed as the worm grows in the intestines) around the anal area or on the surface of the stool. The segments may be moving or may appear as grains of rice caught in the hair around the rectum. They may also be found in places where infected pets rest and sleep. By performing fecal exams, your veterinarian may also detect tapeworm eggs before you see any symptoms at home. Some pets, especially kittens and puppies, do become noticeably ill and symptoms can include:

  • Vomiting
  • Severe weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Swollen stomach
  • Severe anemia

Treatment may need to be repeated and reinfection with tapeworms can occur any time a pet has fleas. Common over the counter de-wormers are not always effective in treating tapeworms.

The two most common meds given to treat tapeworms are Profender and Drontal.

Where can I get these medications for my pet?

Your veterinarian’s office

FACE Clinic

1505 Massachusetts Avenue, Indy 46201

https://facespayneuter.org/recommendedvx/

Appointments are scheduled online at https://facespayneuter.org/schedule-vaccines/

IndyHumane

7929 N. Michigan Road, Indy 46268

https://indyhumane.org/clinics/services/

 Appointment required.  Saturday hours available.  Signup online at https://indyhumane.org/clinics/vaccine-clinic/

West Michigan Street Vet Clinic

3811 W. Michigan Street, Indy 46222

https://www.michiganstreetvet.com/vaccinations     

Walk-in Clinic – be sure to check their hours on the website https://www.michiganstreetvet.com/hours

 **West Michigan Street is also a full-service vet clinic.  It is walk-in and first come, first served. Be sure to follow their Facebook page for early closings due to high volume.