Signs Your Pet Is Affected by Parasites

At Trilby Animal Hospital in Toledo, OH, we can help with parasite prevention. Your pets may suffer lasting effects from internal or external parasites. Parasites can pose health risks to animals and humans. Here are some signs to look out for. 

External Parasites

External parasites include fleas, ticks, and mites, which lead to excessive scratching and skin problems. Fleas and ticks are easily visible, and the naked eye cannot usually see mites. Accordingly, you will need to look for signs such as:

• Hair loss
• Skin infections
• Digging at the ears

Internal Parasites

It isn’t always obvious when animals have internal parasites. Some species, such as tapeworms, are sometimes visible in the feces, while others, like whipworms, remain in the digestive tract and are not always detected in a stool sample.

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloated stomach
• Anemia

Heartworm Dangers

Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworm poses the biggest threat of all. Adult heartworms make their home inside an animal’s heart and affect the lungs, blood vessels, and other organs. Regular testing by a veterinarian is essential, and you should also look for things such as:

• Dry coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Lethargy
• Fainting or collapse

As with other parasites, prevention is crucial. At Trilby Animal Hospital, we recommend monthly preventative with yearly testing. Of course, you should contact us immediately if your pet exhibits any of the above signs, even if you provide monthly preventatives.

Avoid Infestations

It’s far easier to prevent a parasite infestation than to deal with it afterward. Some ways to keep your dog or cat safe include:

• Regular vacuuming to remove fleas and larvae.
• Pick up feces and dispose of it immediately.
• Avoid parks and trails where other animal feces are present.
• Mowing grass and trimming weeds to discourage fleas and ticks.
• Follow a deworming or prevention regimen prescribed by a licensed veterinarian.
• Administer a monthly heartworm preventative.

Visit Our Trusted Veterinarian

Our Trilby Animal Hospital partners in Toledo, OH, can prevent internal and external parasites. If you’ve noticed signs of parasites or want to keep your furry friend healthy, we have a solution to help. Call us at (419) 474-5403 to schedule your appointment.