Parasite Control

Heartworm is a parasitic worm that grows and reproduces in your pet’s organs, feeding on surrounding blood. Although they start out small, worms can grow up to 30cm long and 2cm thick in populations of up to 200.

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Cats, ferrets and especially dogs are most susceptible to heartworm infections.

Mosquitos inject the larvae (called microfilariae) under your pet’s skin, which then spends 5-6 months maturing and moving through your pet’s organs to the heart and blood vessels in the lungs. Once they reproduce the new microfilariae are picked up by mosquitos and the cycle continues.

Signs and symptoms
Heartworm develops slowly but can be fatal if left untreated. By the time pets start to show signs, at least half their lungs are infected. Warning signs include:

• Dry and persistent cough
• Lack of stamina when exercising
• Weight loss
• Dry coat
• Listlessness or weakness

Symptoms of more advanced infection include:

• Heart failure
• Distressed breathing
• Distended abdomen
• Organ damage
• Sudden collapse

Learn more about heartworm: diagnosis, prevention, and effective treatment.

Pets can become infested with tapeworm, hookworm, roundworm, and whipworm. Worms can cause serious health problems, especially in puppies and kittens. Both cats and dogs need to be regularly wormed from a young age.

Some worms can even transfer to humans and cause concerning health issues, especially for children and the elderly.

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The Vetwest Total Wellness Plan includes intestinal worming treatments delivered right to your door every month, plus heartworm and flea protection.

How do pets get worms?
Dogs and cats can pick up worms through a number of ways including:

• Eating worms, eggs or their larvae - parasites like hookworms and roundworms can live in the environments your pet also inhabits like your backyard or the local park. Sniffing, exploring and playing with toys are ways pets can pick up worms from the outside world. Eggs can remain dormant until they are accidentally ingested by your pet.
• From grooming - including licking their paws that may have come into contact with a contaminated surface or that have latched onto your pet's coat.
• Other infected animals - your pet can pick up worms from infected animals such as rodents, birds, other dogs and cats, sheep and livestock. Keep on eye on your pets and prevent them for scavenging. 
• From fleas - Swallowing fleas from grooming can lead to tapeworm infestations, so keeping up with flea prevention is essential.
• From mother to pup - roundworms can be transmitted from an infected mother to the unborn pups via the placenta. 

Signs and symptoms
In many cases, worms are too small to spot but there are some things to look out for:

• Small white flecks (worm eggs) in faeces
• Dogs scooting across the floor
• Worms that look like rice clinging to hair, especially around the rear
• Excessive licking of the rear

Following the worming regimen set out by your Vetwest vet is crucial to protecting your pet’s health, and your family.

Learn more about deworming for dogs and deworming for cats.

Parasite protection can include topical applications, injections, collars, tablets and chews. Preventing your pets from contracting a parasite is not only essential for their health and wellbeing but also for you and your family. Parasites can be transferred to humans, so we definitely want to avoid our pets passing on these nasties to our family!

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Different parasites require different treatments. If your pet is affected by parasites and you are not sure what to do, contact your nearest Vetwest healthcare centre for immediate attention.

Find your nearest Vetwest here or book an appointment online.

Many parasite treatments can be applied or given at home. With the Total Wellness Plan, you will always have your pets monthly dose delivered right to your door so you don't need to worry about when it's due or getting to the shop. Convenient and affordable parasite control and giving your pets the best chance of living parasite free!

What if my pet misses a monthly dose?
It happens; life gets busy and you accidentally miss a monthly dose of deworming, flea, or tick treatment.

There is no universal answer for missed doses, but a few days are usually not problematic. Depending on how many doses were missed and by how long, the solution varies. Check your pet for signs of infection and if you are concerned, contact your Vetwest healthcare professional.

What if my pet has a bad reaction to the monthly medication?
If your pet shows signs of an allergic reaction, contact Vetwest immediately to have them seen to. Discuss any previous allergic or adverse reactions with your vet before commencing treatment and discuss with your vet alternative medications. 

There are several variations of parasite treatments. Your vet will advise on the most appropriate treatment if your pet becomes infected and is allergic to the treatment.

Do parasites affect cats and dogs differently?
Although cats and dogs can contract parasites in different ways (e.g. cats contract worms by hunting infested vermin) the signs are similar. Cats and dogs will both scoot their rear end across the floor if infected with worms. Vomiting, weight loss and low energy are also common signs of an infection.

Fleas and ticks will also show up in similar ways on both cats and dogs. Look out for excessive scratching and irritation and check your pets furr for signs of parasites.

Can I provide monthly doses or treatment to pregnant or lactating pets?
Not all deworm and flea treatments can be used on pregnant or lactating pets. Consult your vet to be sure the treatment you’re using is safe. They will advise the best type and brand to use and design a healthcare plan specially suited to your furry companion.