Roundworms

Roundworms are the most common intestinal parasite seen in most veterinary practices. Signs of roundworm infection include an unhealthy appearance, diarrhea, vomiting, and a distended abdomen (a "pot-belly"). These signs are most severe in puppies and kittens, and can be life threatening. Dewormers are extremely effective for treating roundworm infections.
Roundworms, or ascarids, are white parasites one inch or more in length that live in the small intestines of dogs and cats. Mature female roundworms lay eggs that are passed in the pet's stool. Under the proper conditions of humidity and temperature, these eggs mature in the kennel or yard and become infective to other animals. Roundworm eggs are extremely resistant to adverse conditions and may contaminate the environment for years.
Pets acquire roundworm infections in several ways. Cats, especially, may ingest eggs when they groom themselves after spending time in the yard or near contaminated litter pans. Both dogs and cats may acquire roundworms by eating insects and animals that have been infected with immature roundworms called larvae. Such animals include rodents, rabbits, birds, and some farm animals.
Many experts believe that the most significant route of roundworm infection is from mother to offspring. In dogs, roundworm larvae cross the placenta and infect puppies before they are born. Roundworm larvae in both dogs and cats can be transmitted to puppies and kittens through the mother's milk.
People can be infected with roundworm larvae. This infection, called visceral larva migrans, can be a life threatening condition in children.

Diagnosis

Many authorities believe that all or most puppies and kittens acquire roundworm infections from their mothers. A young animal, therefore, with no deworming history is likely to be infected with roundworms. Roundworm infections are usually diagnosed when your veterinarian finds eggs during microscopic examination of a pet's stool. Several stool samples may need to be examined to establish a diagnosis. Mature worms may be found in vomitus or stool samples.

Treatment and Home Care

Dewormers effectively remove roundworms from dogs and cats. But additional therapy such as antibiotics, fluid therapy, and intestinal protectants may be needed. Control of roundworms should be aimed at reducing the number of infective eggs in the pet's environment. Dogs and cats with roundworms should be dewormed as needed. Feces should be removed daily from litter pans and exercise areas, such as yards and kennels. Litter pans should be washed routinely and allowed to dry in direct sunlight.
Because dogs and cats can acquire roundworm infections by eating insects and other animals, scavenging and hunting behaviors should be controlled as much as possible. Regular microscopic examination of your pet's stool is the best method to ensure that your pet has not been re-infected with roundworms. Your veterinarian will tell you how often your pet's stool should be examined. Some monthly heartworm preventatives are helpful in preventing re-infection.

Dietary Plan

If your pet has roundworms, your veterinarian may suggest a dietary change based on your pet's age and body condition, the degree of illness caused by roundworms, and the presence or absence of disease in other organs and body systems. If your pet is severely ill with roundworms, your veterinarian may give you special feeding instructions. Debilitated patients may benefit from foods with increased levels of protein and energy during the recovery process.