How Do Pets Get Hookworm?
Dogs and cats of any age may get roundworms and hookworms, but they are most vulnerable when they are very young. In fact, it is not unusual for puppies of only 2-3 weeks of age to harbor a significant number of worms. That’s because these worms are often passed from a mother to her puppies before birth. Sometimes they are passed shortly after birth, through her milk. Symptoms of Hookworm Infection Hookworms are intestinal parasites. They live and grow inside the intestine of your pet. Hookworms develop from eggs into larvae, and then later mature into adult worms. Most pets show no sign of infection. However, some do. Signs may include: • Vomiting • Loss of appetite • Severe weight loss Heavy infections in young puppies and kittens may be fatal. Can Animals Transmit Hookworm to People? Yes, but not directly. Puppies and kittens are especially likely to have hookworm infections. Animals that are infected pass hookworm eggs in their stools. The eggs can hatch into larvae, and both eggs
