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Worms in dogs and cats: similarities and differences

Dogs and cats can both suffer from worm infections. Some types of worms are shared between dogs and cats, while others affect only one of the two. When it comes to worm prevention, there are also many similarities and differences between dogs and cats. In this blog, we discuss the similarities and differences regarding worm infections in dogs and cats and provide tips on how to prevent them.

Similarities and differences in worms
Dogs and cats carry the same types of worms: roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, coccidia, giardia, and French heartworm. Some of these worms can be transmitted between dogs and cats, while others are specific to one species. Below are the similarities and differences.

  • Roundworm
    Both dogs and cats can suffer from roundworms. These are long, round worms that can grow up to fifteen centimeters. Roundworms mainly occur in young animals up to 2 years old. Dogs and cats can infect each other with roundworms.
  • Hookworm
    Hookworms are also found in both species, especially in group housing situations like shelters or kennels, but also in pets. Dogs and cats can infect each other with hookworms.
  • Whipworm
    Whipworms are more common in dogs but can occasionally occur in cats. They live in the large intestine and cecum of dogs, cats, and foxes. These animals can infect each other.
  • Tapeworm
    Four types of tapeworms are common in the Netherlands. Dipylidium caninum affects both dogs and cats and is transmitted via fleas or lice. Taenia taeniaeformis is transmitted via consumption of prey animals or feces. Dogs and cats can infect each other with both. The fox and dog tapeworms occur only in dogs.
  • Coccidia
    Coccidia are single-celled parasites that can cause short-term diarrhea, especially in young animals. Known species include Toxoplasma, Neospora, Cryptosporidium, and Cystoisospora. Cats shed Toxoplasma via feces. Dogs and humans can become very ill if infected. Neospora occurs only in dogs and is transmitted via feces or raw meat. Cryptosporidium can infect dogs, cats, and humans, and causes foul-smelling diarrhea. Cystoisospora is most common in animals under 4 months. Transmission is possible via contact with other animals or raw meat.
  • Giardia
    Giardia is one of the most common intestinal parasites in both dogs and cats. It lives in the intestines and is transmitted via feces or contaminated water. Humans can also rarely get infected.
  • French heartworm
    This worm occurs in both dogs and cats, although cats are less susceptible. It lives in the lung’s small blood vessels and is transmitted via slugs and snails. Dogs and cats become infected by eating infected snails or prey. It is not transmissible between pets.

Prevention of worm infections
Prevention is better than cure. Since many worms are easily transmitted, good prevention is essential to protect both your pet and yourself. To reduce the risk of your dog or cat becoming infected, you can take the following actions:

  • Pick up your dog's feces immediately and clean the litter box regularly. Always dispose of feces in the trash.
  • Keep your dog’s or cat’s environment hygienic
  • Have your dog’s or cat’s feces tested regularly (4 times a year) to detect and treat worm infections early.
  • If your dog has frequent contact with wildlife or your cat goes outdoors, it’s wise to increase the frequency of fecal testing.
  • Prevent and treat fleas in your dog or cat to avoid worm infections transmitted by fleas.
  • Practice personal hygiene to minimize the risk of infection.

Why fecal testing?
You’ve just read that many types of worms can infect your dog or cat. A worm infection can not only harm your pet but also be passed on to other animals and humans. That’s why it’s important to test for worms regularly (4 times a year), so infections can be detected early.

At Worm&Co, we routinely examine your dog’s or cat’s feces for roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and coccidia. Additionally, you can choose to test for Giardia and French heartworm. If your pet is infected, we will always provide a personalized treatment recommendation.

Want to read more about the different types of worms in dogs or cats? Click here for dogs or here for cats.

Do you have any further questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. Our enthusiastic team is happy to help!

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