| |
The roundworms Toxocara canis, Toxocara cati and Toxascaris leonina are intestinal parasites found in dogs and cats. These worms are contracted from contaminated fecal matter, or can be passed from the puppy's mother. Roundworms may not cause any clinical signs, but most puppies will have some diarrhea, potbelly, gas, vomiting, dull coat or lack of weight gain. Diagnosis is based on presence of spaghetti like worms in feces or vomit, or presence of eggs on fecal examination. Treatment is usually successful with one of the many deworming medications. At Mission Viejo Veterinary Hospital we routinely give puppies a deworming medication because this parasite is common. |