Tapeworm Control in Dogs and Cats

Tapeworms are parasites that attach themselves to you pet’s intestines and feed off of their nutrients. Dogs frequently get tapeworms from fleas, which are an intermediate host for the most common type of tapeworm, Dipylidium caninum. When your dog chews at and swallows an infected flea, it also ingests tapeworm eggs. As tapeworms mature, their tail segments drop off, pass through your pet’s digestive system and then shed eggs which become food for flea larvae. The cycle continues as more infected fleas mature and are ingested. Consistent flea control can minimize the risk of common tapeworm infections. Other species of tapeworms can be acquired by eating infected rodents or the remains of other animals. These types of infections can be higher in curious farm dogs.

Canine Tapeworm Tabs and Feline Tapeworm Tabs contain praziquantel for removal of tapeworms in dogs and cats. Tapeworm Tabs are available without a prescription, and can be fed easily by mouth or crumbled over food. There are many other wormers available to treat other specific internal parasites, like roundworms, hookworms and whipworms. Some monthly heartworm preventatives also contain medication to control one or more of these internal parasite infections. Lori H

What worming product do you use on your pet?