One of the reasons so many pets contract worms at some stage of their life is the ease with which worms can be transmitted. Some of these worms may not be dangerous, but others can be dangerous if left untreated. We’ve put together some of the best ways to help stop the spread of these troublesome parasites.

Regular checks

Even if your pet is taking a regular deworming treatment, your vet will recommend getting a fecal exam 12 times per year to check for the existence of worms. As many worms do not cause symptoms in dogs or cats or do not cause symptoms until the infestation is somewhat advanced, a fecal exam will help discover the worms before you can.

Preventative medication

The most comprehensive protection you can provide for your pet is by giving them a regular deworming preventative. Despite the name, these products do not prevent your dog or cat from getting worms, but rather eliminate the worm larvae before they can cause damage or multiply. Maintaining a regular dosing schedule is essential to kill off any new worms that may have been contracted since the last dose.

Dewormers are available as broad-spectrum products that treat a number of internal (and sometimes external parasites). If you are unsure about which worms your pet needs protection from, speak to your vet about the parasites prevalent in your area.

Fight fleas

Tapeworms are not transmitted through the environment, but when your dog or cat swallows an infected flea. To prevent the spread of tapeworm you will also need to eliminate fleas on your pet and in your pet’s environment.

You may wish to use a one-off medication such as Capstar, which kills existing adult fleas and can be given up to once a day in case of reinfestation. Alternatively, you can give your pet regular flea medication, such as Frontline Plus, which provides-month long protection against any new fleas and ticks.

Unfortunately, there is no single product that kills all external and internal parasites, but by combining as few two products you can cover all bases. You can see which products treat which brands on our treatment comparison page.

Clean up their environment

For worms that can be spread through the environment or through feces, keeping your house and yard clean is key. Be sure to pick up your dog’s poop and empty your cat’s litter tray regularly. Obviously, there are many opportunities for your pet to pick up worms in the outside world, so do be aware that cats who are allowed outdoors and dogs that go for walks are much more at risk.

Keep your pet healthy

A healthy immune system will go along way to helping your pet fight off worm infestations, and to help them recover from any symptoms that may develop. A healthy diet and regular exercise are vital to an animal’s general wellbeing, but you may wish to consider dogorcat specific health supplements.

Heartgard Plus

Advantage Multi

Revolution