Intestinal worms are a common issue for dogs and cats, and unfortunately, no furry friend is entirely immune. These parasites feed off the waste products in your pet’s digestive system, and while most dogs and cats will encounter worms at some point in their lives, it’s important to keep them in check to avoid any health issues. While a small number of worms may not cause harm, a large infestation can lead to serious problems.
Some of the most common worms affecting dogs and cats are: roundworms, hookworm, whipworms, tapeworm and heartworm.
In most cases it is difficult to know if your animals have worms. This is because they will not always show any obvious symptoms unless they have a large infestation.
- Roundworms are large spaghetti-like in appearance and absorb nutrients from the infected animal. They live and reproduce in the small intestine.
- Hookworms are short blood sucking parasites that attach to the intestinal wall and suck blood and nutrients from their host. Hookworms are more common in dogs than in cats and can cause anemia if left untreated.
- Tapeworms are long and flat in appearance and break off into segments. They can grow quite long in length and live in the small intestine. Dogs and cats may acquire tapeworms by ingesting an intermediate host, like an infected flea or rodent. Tapeworm segments which look like small grains or rice may be visible around the anal area and can cause itchiness (anal scooting) in dogs or cats.
- Whipworms are threadlike and are also more common in dogs than cats. Animals may become infected by ingesting whipworm eggs from soil or other substances containing eggs.
- Heartworm is a type of roundworm spread by mosquitoes when they bite a dog and inject immature worms, called microfilaria, into the body. The microfilaria then circulates through the body tissue taking approximately six months to reach the right side of the dog’s heart where they develop into adult heartworm.
Symptoms of Worm Infestation in Dogs and Cats
Worm infestations can show up in different ways, and not all dogs and cats will have obvious symptoms. Some animals might have a heavy worm load and still seem perfectly fine, while others may become quite unwell. Common signs of worms in dogs and cats include:
- Digestive issues (like bloating or discomfort)
- Trouble absorbing nutrients (which can lead to weight loss or slow growth)
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Eating grass or vomiting often
- Scooting (dragging their rear end on the ground)
- Changes in appetite (either more or less than usual)
- Heart and respiratory issues, along with a weakened immune system
If left unchecked, a worm infestation can also lead to more severe health problems like anaemia or organ damage.
The Risks of Commercial Worming Products
While commercial worming treatments are widely available and often used, they can be pretty harsh on your dog or cat’s body—especially when used repeatedly. Overusing these medications can damage the digestive lining and create further toxicity. This is particularly concerning for puppies and kittens under six months old, whose digestive systems are still developing. For this reason, it’s best to avoid these products unless absolutely necessary and consider more natural alternatives for ongoing worm prevention.
A Natural Approach to Preventing Worms
From a naturopathic perspective, worms thrive in toxic, waste-filled environments. By focusing on your dog or cat’s overall internal health, you can create an environment that’s less inviting to parasites. Think of it like this: If you keep a garbage bin clean, no flies will hang around. But if the bin is full of trash, flies will swarm to it. Similarly, a healthy, clean digestive system makes it much harder for worms to take hold.
Diet Matters
What your dog or cat eats plays a huge role in their ability to fight off worms. From my experience, dogs and cats that are fed processed or commercial food tend to have a higher worm load than those on a fresh, raw meat diet. While some may worry that raw meat could introduce worms, I’ve found that this isn’t typically the case. In fact, animals eating a raw diet are generally healthier and stronger, with better digestion and fewer parasites overall.
Although a natural diet goes a long way in boosting your dog or cat’s health, it’s still a good idea to use natural worming remedies as an added measure of protection.
When to Worm Your Dog or Cat
If you’re using natural methods to worm your dog or cat, timing is key. It’s believed that worms are more active during the full moon. At this time, they are less embedded in the tissues, making them easier to expel. For the best results, consider giving natural worming treatments just before the full moon to ensure they work effectively.
Natural Remedies for Worm Control
There are several natural foods that can help support your dog or cat’s body in fighting off parasites like intestinal worms. These foods work by either creating an inhospitable environment for parasites or by promoting overall gut health. Here are some of the most popular natural foods to help with parasite control:
1. Garlic
Garlic is often touted as a natural anti-parasitic agent due to its sulfur compounds, such as allicin. It can help repel intestinal worms and other parasites.
2. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are excellent for parasite control, particularly for intestinal worms. They contain cucurbitacin, a compound that has been shown to paralyse and expel worms from the digestive tract. You can grind the seeds and add them to your dog or cat’s food, making them a tasty and beneficial treat.
3. Diatomaceous Earth (Food-Grade)
Food-grade diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms. When ingested, it can help kill internal parasites by dehydrating them and damaging their exoskeletons. Make sure to use only food-grade diatomaceous earth, as other types can be harmful.
4. Coconut
Coconut, both in its fresh form and as coconut oil, has natural anti-parasitic properties. It contains medium-chain fatty acids like lauric acid, which can help kill and expel intestinal worms. You can add a small amount of shredded coconut or coconut oil to your pet’s food. Just be mindful of the calorie content, especially if your pet is on a calorie-restricted diet.
5. Carrots
Carrots are high in fibre and can help to naturally expel parasites from the digestive tract. They also act as a gentle digestive aid, helping to prevent constipation caused by worms. Feeding your dog or cat raw or steamed carrots can help support their gut health while potentially aiding in parasite control.
6. Turmeric
Turmeric is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties, but it also has natural anti-parasitic effects. The active compound, curcumin, can help detoxify the body and support the immune system in fighting off parasites. A small amount of turmeric added to your pet’s food can be beneficial. Be cautious with the dosage, as too much turmeric can cause stomach upset.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is often used to help with digestion and to maintain a balanced pH in the body. When it comes to parasites, ACV can create a less favourable environment for worms to thrive. It may also improve gut health by supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria. Add a small amount of diluted apple cider vinegar to your pet’s water or food.
8. Papaya
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which helps break down proteins and can act as a natural dewormer. Papaya seeds are especially beneficial, as they can help eliminate intestinal worms. You can feed small pieces of papaya to your dog or cat or crush the seeds and mix them into their food.
9. Fennel
Fennel is known for its digestive properties and can help expel parasites, especially those that reside in the intestines. It also has soothing properties that can help calm inflammation in the digestive system caused by worm infestations. You can add fennel to your pet’s food in small amounts, either as a fresh herb or dried.
10. Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is another herb that supports digestion and can help soothe the digestive tract. It helps promote a healthy mucus lining in the intestines, which can make it harder for parasites to take hold. Slippery elm bark powder can be added to your dog or cat’s food to provide additional support for their digestive system.
11. Cloves
Cloves are a natural anti-parasitic food that can help kill off parasites in the digestive system. The compounds in cloves, particularly eugenol, have been shown to act against a variety of parasites.
12. Ginger
Ginger is well known for its ability to settle the stomach, and it also has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-parasitic effects. It can help expel worms from the digestive tract while soothing any stomach discomfort caused by an infestation. Fresh ginger can be grated and added to your dog or cat’s food in small amounts.
Heartworm: A Serious Concern for Dogs and Cats
In addition to intestinal worms, heartworm is another dangerous parasite that affects both dogs and, to a lesser extent, cats. Heartworm is spread by mosquito bites and can be deadly if left untreated. They live and grow in the heart and blood vessels, causing serious complications over time.
Symptoms of Heartworm Infection:
- Lethargy and lack of energy
- Vomiting
- Coughing or trouble breathing, especially after exercise
- In more advanced stages, you may notice fluid in the lungs, weight loss, impaired blood flow, digestive problems, and low vitality
A simple blood test from your veterinarian can tell you if your dog or cat has heartworms. Early detection is important for effective treatment.
The Concerns with Commercial Heartworm Medications
There are medications to prevent heartworms, but they can be tough on your dog or cat’s system. These vary from daily or monthly tablets or a yearly injection, but many are concerned about the long-term effects of these treatments. As with intestinal worms, it’s important to approach heartworm prevention carefully and consider natural alternatives where possible.
If your dog or cat is diagnosed with heartworm, please seek the advice of a holistic veterinarian.
Keep Your Dog or Cat Healthy with Natural Preventative Care
Whether it’s intestinal worms or heartworm, taking a proactive approach to your dog or cat’s health is key to avoiding parasite problems. By focusing on improving their overall internal health, feeding a balanced, natural diet, and using natural worming methods, you can help keep your furry friend healthy and worm-free.
Always remember, natural remedies work best when they’re part of a broader wellness plan. For dogs or cats who are already dealing with worms or heartworm, professional veterinary care is essential for the best possible treatment.
With the right care and a little prevention, you can help your dog or cat stay healthy, happy, and free from parasites.
Adding a good quality Canine/Feline Probiotic along with digestive enzyme supplements also provides additional support by ensuring the gastrointestinal tract has a good balance of healthy intestinal flora to help flush out intestinal worms.
There are a number of herbs that have anti-parasitic properties which may be used to help control worms in dogs and cats as well as horses, poultry, birds and people!
If you do need to use a conventional wormer or heartworm medication, then it is a good idea to follow up with liver detox remedies to reduce the risk of side effects.
We also have natural products for people as humans get worms also!
Please Contact Us for more information on natural support to help with preventing parasites.
