The public health department recommends worming cats and dogs every 3 months.
There are many types of worms that animals can carry. They can be caught by ingesting eggs from the environment, eating infected fleas or from eating prey.
Worming is particularly important to prevent the spread of a specific roundworm (Toxocara) that can on rare occasions be responsible for causing serious eye problems (including blindness) in children.
Kittens and Puppies usually have a high burden of worms from their mother and it is recommended that they are wormed more regularly.
Kittens and puppies should be wormed every 2-3 weeks until they are 12 weeks old and then monthly until 6 months old.
There are many types of worming treatments available, ranging from powders to mix in food, tablets and liquids. There are also "Spot-ons" that are absorbed through the skin after applying on the back of the neck (some of which also treat fleas and mites).
Some products are significantly more effective than others (and sometimes easier to administer!). We are happy to discuss the options available.
Lungworm
We have seen the emergence of Lungworm in the Milton Keynes area in the last year. Lungworm is caught by dogs that eat infected snails, slugs or frogs. It is thought even the slime from these animals can spread the disease if ingested.
Lungworm infections can cause blood clotting disorders as well as a cough through lung disease. It is diagnosed by finding lungworm larvae in the faeces of dogs.
Luckily there is a licenced product to treat and help protect against the worm. Please telephone us to discuss the medicine.
