It is not enough to simply keep a pet at home; attention needs to be paid to its health as well. Whatever the pet may be, whether it’s a dog, cat, or rabbit, regular check-ups, vaccinations, and giving medicines when necessary are required. One important thing for every pet is deworming.
Sometimes, while playing outdoors or through food intake, pets may ingest various types of worms that settle in their intestines. These worms absorb nutrition from the body of the pet, which really affects their health adversely. That is why regular deworming at specific intervals is necessary.
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What is deworming?
Deworming includes the administration of medicine to kill worms, especially those in the intestines of pets. Deworming medicines are available as tablets, syrups, and injections. The proper dose, of course, depends upon the age, weight, and health of the pet.
How do pets get infected?
Infections with worms can be contracted via soil, dirty water, contaminated food, or simply by contact with other animals’ faeces. Young pets can even get infected through their mother’s milk. That is why even indoor pets need regular deworming.
Signs and Symptoms of Worm Infection
Loss of appetite or sudden increase in hunger
Weight loss
Excessive hair standing up, or changes in fur
Frequent vomiting or diarrhoea
Scooting - dragging the rear on the floor
If you observe any of these signs, consult a veterinarian immediately.
When should deworming be done?
Deworming is something to be done periodically. Just like you go to see a doctor at specific periods of time, so does your pet need deworming at certain times:
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For newborn animals: From 15 days up to 3 months of age, repeat every 15 days.
After 3 months: Deworm every 3 months. For adult pets: Provide deworming medicine 3-4 times yearly.
Why is it important?
Deworming helps to maintain your pet's immunity, ensures proper nutrient absorption, and keeps digestion healthy. Most importantly, some worms can infect humans as well; therefore, regular deworming protects the health of your entire family.
