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Parasites are creatures that live within or consume other living things.
Though they only contribute to a portion of the issue, fleas and ticks are the most infamous offenders. Other common parasites include mites, lice, and heartworm, as well as intestinal and other parasites. A pet may experience everything from little annoyances to significant illnesses that, if left untreated, can be fatal. The health of humans is also threatened by parasites in our pets.
In cats and dogs, fleas are by far the most prevalent parasite. In addition to causing skin irritation, these insects spread bacteria that cause cat scratch fever. They also transmit another parasite: tapeworm. Our pets can contract heartworms from mosquito bites. Ticks can transmit dangerous infections that can lead to Lyme disease, paralysis, anemia, and other conditions. Ear mites can irritate the ears and cause our pets to excessively scratch. This can cause blood vessels to break in the ear and the tissue to inflate with blood. These are only a few examples of the parasites our pets may come into contact with and the problems they can cause.
Ways To Prevent Parasites in Pets
Veterinary medicine has advanced to a point that most parasitic infections are preventable. Here are some key ways to keep your pet healthy and prevent infestations:
Clean up any pet feces to prevent the spread of worm larvae or eggs.
Practice good personal hygiene when handling pets of any age.
Grooming animals can help reduce the risk of fur contamination and help catch an infestation early.
Start pets on a regular deworming regime at a young age.
Make sure to fully finish any treatment plan given to you by your veterinarian.
Use spot-on products to prevent tick and flea bites.
Consult a veterinarian to ensure you’re choosing a correct, safe treatment for your pet.