Internal Parasites in Dogs and Cats: What Every Pet Owner Should Know
Internal parasites are a common but serious health concern for both dogs and cats. In warmer climates, where parasites can thrive year-round, prevention and early detection are essential to keeping your pets healthy—and protecting your household as well.
Heartworms
What are they?
Heartworms are parasitic worms that enter a pet’s bloodstream and travel to the heart and lungs. Once there, they grow and reproduce—sometimes reaching up to 14 inches in length. Left untreated, heartworm disease can be fatal.
How are pets infected?
Heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites. Even pets that spend most of their time indoors are still at risk, since mosquitoes can easily make their way inside.
How are heartworms detected?
At Belle Isle Animal Hospital, heartworms are diagnosed with a simple blood test.
Because it can take up to six months for heartworms to show up on a test, annual screening is strongly recommended.
How are they treated?
Because treatment is difficult, prevention is always the better option.
- Cats: There is no approved treatment, and complications can be severe
- Dogs: Treatment is possible but involves multiple medications, injections, and strict rest
Prevention is Key
Monthly preventatives are safe, effective, and designed to protect your pet year-round. Common options include:
- Simparica Trio
- Interceptor Plus
- Revolution Plus
You can explore prevention options here: View our online pharmacy
Or reach out to Belle Isle Animal Hospital for guidance on what’s best for your pet.
Intestinal Parasites
What are they?
Intestinal parasites live in your pet’s digestive system and feed off nutrients, which can lead to a range of health issues.
Common types and symptoms
- Tapeworms: Weight loss, visible segments
- Roundworms: Vomiting or diarrhea
- Hookworms: Weakness, anemia
- Whipworms: Bloody diarrhea
- Giardia & Coccidia: Digestive upset
How are pets infected?
Pets can become infected through:
- Contaminated soil or feces
- Fleas or prey
- Contact with infected animals
Some intestinal parasites can also be transmitted to humans.
How are they diagnosed?
A simple fecal test can detect intestinal parasites—even in pets without symptoms. Routine testing is an important part of preventive care.
Parasites are more than just an inconvenience—they can impact your pet’s health and your family’s well-being. The good news is that with routine testing, proper hygiene, and consistent prevention, most parasite-related issues can be avoided.
If you have questions about parasite prevention, the team at Belle Isle Animal Hospital is here to help.
