Hookworms are a common intestinal parasite in dogs and cats. Puppies and kittens are most frequently affected as the parasite is transmitted from mom in the womb as well as through nursing. All animals can pick up the infection, however. Hookworm eggs are deposited in the feces of infected animals. The eggs then hatch in the soil and develop into the infective larva form. The larvae can then either be ingested or penetrate through the skin of the pet. From there, the larvae grow into adult worms in the small intestines where they cause diarrhea, blood loss, and weight loss.
Like roundworms, hookworms can also be transmitted to people-leading to anemia and iron deficiency and sometimes more severe disease.Children are especially susceptible to hookworms. It is thought that hookworm infects about 800 million people worldwide.
Hookworm can be treated with a simple deworming medication given orally. The key is to prevent reinfection by cleaning up feces in the yard daily. Many heartworm preventives also control hookworm infection.
The CDC recommends regular deworming of all puppies and kittens to try to reduce the exposure of hookworm to people. A medication will be dispensed when your puppy or kitten is first seen.
The CDC recommends the following prevention measures:
- Keep dogs and cats under a veterinarian’s care for early and regular deworming.
- Clean up after the pet and dispose of stool daily.
- Keep animals’ play area clean.
- Wash hands after playing with dogs or cats.
- Keep children from playing in areas where animals have soiled.
- Cover sandboxes to keep animals out.
- Don’t let children eat dirt.