Intestinal parasites are the bane of every cat and dog owner who wants to give the best possible quality of health to their pets. All pets, even cats that never go outside, are at risk of getting intestinal parasites at some point in their life. Intestinal parasites are easily transmissible, reproduce quickly, and can damage your pet’s gastrointestinal tract and severely affect their quality of life if left unchecked and treated. Fortunately for you and your pet, intestinal parasites can be treated and eliminated from your pet with little stress. Following is a look at intestinal parasites and why you should make an appointment with Blue Sky Vet Clinic in Bend for parasite treatment and prevention for your pet.

How Intestinal Parasites are Transmitted

Intestinal parasites are referred to as such due to the fact they spend most or all their lifecycle in the gastrointestinal system of mammals. They and their eggs are shed when an animal defecates. The most common method of infestation comes when the parasites and the eggs lie in the soil. They wait to be picked up by a passing animal either through ingestion or by attaching to the animal itself. Another method of transmission is through The exception is the hookworm that’s a parasite that burrows through the skin of an animal to lay eggs. Their larvae eventually make their way to the gastrointestinal tract to reproduce.

Dogs are most likely to consume fecal matter and ingest the worms which can trigger a visit to the dog vet in Bend to get to the bottom of the habit and treatment for parasites. Cats that hunt outdoors or catch vermin indoors and consume their kill are also at increased risk of intestinal parasites and need to see the cat vet in Bend regularly to prevent a parasite load.

Common Intestinal Parasites in the Bend Area

Parasites are found just about anywhere in Bend and in the state of Oregon. The most common intestinal parasites include:

• Roundworms
• Whipworms
• Tapeworms
• Giardia

Talk to your Bend veterinarian for more information about the risk of infection from intestinal parasites for your pet. The vet at the vet clinic in Bend can help you take preventative actions that minimize the potential of your pet picking up an unwanted guest.

Signs Your Pet has Intestinal Parasites

Sometimes you won’t know your pet is carrying a parasite load until you bring them and a fecal sample to the Bend veterinarian for an exam. But if the parasite population grows too big, they can starve your pet of nutrients and make it hard for them to digest their food. Signs of intestinal parasites include:

• Vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss
• Lethargy
• Diarrhea
• Bloody stools
• Pot-bellied appearance
• Coughing
• Dry or rough coat
• Loss of appetite
• Scooting across a floor or carpet with rear-end down

Getting Intestinal Parasite Treatment for Your Pet

Some intestinal parasites are a minor inconvenience while others can be deadly if not treated. The biggest problem with intestinal parasites is the fact it’s difficult to prevent your cat or dog from picking them up. It’s easier to assume that your pet has picked up a parasite, especially if they regularly go outdoors, and bring them to Blue Sky Vet Clinic for treatment. The staff at Blue Sky veterinary internal medicine in Bend to help pet owners keep their pets free from intestinal parasites and educate pet owners on the issues caused by intestinal parasites.