Updated worming guidelines for pets

Regular worming is essential for maintaining the health of your cats and dogs, and your family. There are a number of different worms that affect pets in New Zealand.

1. Roundworms
   Roundworms (Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati) are one of the most common types of intestinal worms found in both dogs and cats. These worms are often transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food, soil, or feces. Puppies and kittens are particularly vulnerable, and roundworms can also pose a risk to humans, particularly children, if proper hygiene is not maintained.
2. Hookworms
   Hookworms (Ancylostoma spp.) are parasitic worms that can infect both dogs and cats. They are transmitted through skin contact with contaminated soil or ingestion of larvae. Hookworms cause significant damage to the intestinal lining and can lead to anemia, weight loss, and even death in severe cases.
3. Tapeworms
   Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum) are flat, segmented worms that infect the intestines of dogs and cats. These worms are transmitted through the ingestion of fleas or other intermediate hosts. Tapeworms can lead to digestive issues, itching around the back end, and weight loss. Cats and dogs with tapeworm infestations may often be seen scooting their bottoms on the ground due to the irritation caused by the worms.
4. Whipworms
   Whipworms (Trichuris vulpis) affect both dogs and, less commonly, cats. These worms are transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water. Whipworms cause inflammation in the large intestine, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, and dehydration.

Regular worming is essential for a number of reasons:

• Preventing Illness and Discomfort: Worm infestations can cause various symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and weight loss. In some cases, they can even lead to death, particularly in puppies and kittens.
• Protecting Human Health: Some intestinal parasites, like roundworms, can be transmitted to humans, especially children. Regular worming helps reduce the risk of zoonotic infections.

New Pet Worming Guidelines Based on Risk Factors in New Zealand

New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and veterinarians have updated their recommendations for worming treatments to recognize that not all pets are exposed to the same environmental or lifestyle risks, and as such, tailored worming schedules are now recommended.

Key Risk Factors for Worm Infections in New Zealand

1. Pet’s Lifestyle and Environment
   • Outdoor vs. Indoor Pets: Pets that spend a lot of time outdoors or roam freely are at a much higher risk of being exposed to parasites compared to those kept indoors. For example, outdoor pets may ingest contaminated soil, water, or prey, while indoor pets have limited exposure to these risks.
   • Rural vs. Urban Areas: Pets in rural areas are more likely to encounter parasites from wild animals or livestock. In urban areas, the risk might be lower, but pets can still encounter parasites through contact with other pets or through unsupervised outdoor excursions.
   • Dogs on sheep farms require monthly worming with a tapeworm treatment as part of the Sheep Measles control program. More information about this can be found here https://www.sheepmeasles.co.nz/
   • Hunting or Scavenging Pets: Dogs and cats that hunt small animals (such as rodents) or scavenge from trash are at higher risk of ingesting parasites like tapeworms and roundworms, as these parasites are commonly transmitted by intermediate hosts.
2. Pet’s Age and Health Status
   • Puppies and Kittens: Young animals are more vulnerable to worm infestations, as their immune systems are still developing. New Zealand’s guidelines stress the importance of starting worming treatments at an early age to prevent infestations before they become severe. Puppies and kittens need to be wormed every two weeks until they are 12 weeks old.
   • Senior Pets: Older pets may also be more susceptible to worms due to a weakened immune system. Senior pets should receive regular veterinary check-ups to determine the appropriate worming frequency, as their immune systems may not respond as effectively to parasites.
3. Climate
   • Environmental Conditions: Worms such as hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms thrive in warm, humid conditions. Areas with higher rainfall and mild temperatures create an environment that supports the survival and spread of these parasites, increasing the risk to pets.
4. Contact with Other Animals
   • Multi-pet Households: Households with multiple pets, or those where pets frequently interact with others outside the home, face an increased risk of parasite transmission. Regular worming in these environments helps prevent the spread of parasites between animals, particularly in environments like animal shelters, kennels, or pet parks.
   • Pets in Contact with Stray or Wild Animals: Pets that interact with wildlife or stray animals, such as feral cats and dogs, are at greater risk of contracting parasites.

Types of worming treatments

1. Tablets and Chews: Oral tablets and chewable tablets are the most common form of worming treatment. They are usually easy to administer, especially for pets that are food-motivated.
2. Spot-on Treatments: These are applied directly to the skin, usually between the shoulder blades, and are absorbed into the bloodstream. Spot-on treatments are often used for combined parasite control, addressing not only worms but also fleas.

If you have any concerns or questions about worming, consulting with a veterinarian is always a good idea to ensure the best care for your pets.