What to do if your pet has parasites 🧡 🐾

Understanding parasites and why they matter

Pets can carry external parasites (fleas, ticks) and internal ones (worms, protozoa). They cause itching, hair loss, digestive problems and may pose a risk to people. Compassionate, timely care often resolves the issue with minimal stress for the animal.

How to recognize parasites

External signs

• Frequent scratching, hair pulling, scabs or bald patches.
• Visible fleas or flea dirt in the coat and bedding.
• Ticks attached to skin.

Internal signs

• Changes in appetite, vomiting or diarrhea.
• Weight loss or lethargy.
• Visible segments of worms in stool in some cases.

If you are unsure, a vet check and a stool test are the safest next steps.

Immediate steps at home (do's and don'ts)

Do

• Keep the affected pet separate from other animals until inspected.
• Wash bedding and soft toys in hot water; clean the sleeping area.
• Vacuum carpets and furniture thoroughly and dispose of dust bag contents.
• Wash hands after handling the pet.

Don't

• Administer medicines recommended by non-professionals.
• Use human medications unless explicitly advised by a vet.

Vet visit and treatment

• A veterinarian will examine your pet and may request fecal testing or skin scraping.
• Treatment depends on the parasite type: dewormers, topical insecticides, shampoos or other veterinary products may be used.
• Follow the vet's dosage instructions and complete all prescribed follow-ups; some treatments require repeat dosing.
• Ask which products are safe for pregnant animals, seniors, puppies, or kittens.

Prevention and ongoing care

• Create a prevention schedule with your vet (regular deworming, flea/tick preventives as appropriate).
• Keep bedding clean and disinfect living spaces regularly.
• Maintain good household hygiene: regular cleaning and ventilation.
• Use vet-recommended products suitable for your pet's age and weight.

Protecting your household

• Wash hands after pet contact and before meals.
• Avoid letting pets lick children’s faces until the issue is resolved.
• If household members are immunocompromised, consult a medical professional for extra precautions.

Aftercare and monitoring

• Keep records of treatments and dates.
• Monitor the pet for any recurrence and return to the vet if symptoms persist.
• Share experiences with your community — neighbors may benefit from preventive steps.

Conclusion

Parasites are a common but manageable problem. Prompt veterinary diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and careful home hygiene protect both pets and people. TailsPal supports compassionate care and community awareness to keep animals healthy and safe.