5 Ways Your Pet Could Get Worms​

Pets can contract worms through the following common pathways:​

1. Contact with Feces or Affected Soil​

Pets often sniff or eat other animals’ feces, or walk through infested soil. Worm larvae can enter their bodies via this contact—even by licking their feet after exposure.​

2. Eating Raw Meat​

Raw meat (including prey like mice) may contain roundworm or hookworm eggs/larvae, which develop into worms once inside your pet.​

3. Flea Infestations​

Fleas carry tapeworm eggs from infected animals, transmitting them to your pet when ingested.​

4. Mosquito Bites​

Heartworm larvae enter pets through mosquito bites, settling in the heart and blood vessels (unlike other worms that live in the digestive tract).​

5.Birth and Nursing​

Puppies and kittens can inherit worms from their mothers during birth or through nursing.​

6.Deworming: Protecting Your Pets​

Deworming medication eliminates existing worms and prevents future infestations. Given that 34% of dogs nationwide (and 54% in southern states) have worms (per Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center), prevention is critical.​

Puppies/Kittens: Start deworming at 2–3 weeks old, with treatments every 2 weeks until nursing stops. After that, follow monthly or vet-recommended schedules.​

Flea Protection: Year-round flea control (chewables or topicals) kills fleas, eggs, and larvae—often included in deworming plans.​

Indoor Pets: Even indoor pets are at risk, as humans can bring fleas or worm eggs into the home on clothing/shoes.​

Keep your pet healthy with regular vet visits and deworming. Contact our office to schedule a check-up!