General
Information
Roundworms (ascarids)
are the most common intestinal parasite of dogs and cats.
Pets become infected by swallowing roundworm eggs or larvae
(immature worms) found in contaminated soil of feces or
by eating infected rodents, birds, and certain insects.
Puppies and kittens are commonly infected by the mother
while still in the uterus. Swallowed larvae travel through
the body to the intestine, where they develop into mature
worms. There, adult females deposit eggs, which pass with
the stool and develop into infective larvae. Diagnosis is
by identifying the eggs during microscopic examination of
a stool sample.
Public
Health Significance
Human infection with
roundworm larvae (not adults) is possible but does not occur
frequently if good hygiene is practiced, since eating contaminated
stool or soil is necessary for infection. Children should
be taught the importance of cleanliness when playing with
animals, especially litters of puppies and kittens. The
best insurance against human infection is keeping your pet
free from roundworms by regular stool examination and treatment
if necessary.
Important
Points In Treatment
1. For successful
treatment, medication must be give as directed. Call the
doctor if you cannot give the prescribed medication. In
some cases, hospital treatment is desirable.
2. A stool sample should be checked
after the last treatment to ensure that all worms have been
eliminated.
Control
Measures
1. Stool
samples should be examined microscopically
at regular intervals. Your doctor
will advise you regarding the correct
time to do this.
2. The stool
should be checked for worms before
females are bred. Stool samples
from puppies and kittens should
be tested at or before weaning.
3. Good sanitation
is essential. Remove stools promptly
from the area where your pet is
confined.
4. Eggs can
remain infective in soil for years,
so contaminated ground becomes a
source of reinfection. This is especially
true of dog pens, runs, or areas
where your pet may be tied. Control
measures for these areas include:
- Turning
the soil over to a depth of 8-12
inches after your pet is free of
worms.
- Replacing
dirt runs with concrete, which seems
to be the most effective control
procedure.
- Removing
stools daily.
- Moving
your pet to a new, uncontaminated
area
