How would you like to wake up in the morning and find an 18" worm in your bed? That is exactly what happened to one of our clients earlier today. This client has 3 cats that sleep in bed with her. She suspected the cats to be the source of the worm and brought it to us for identification. The owner was correct, this worm was vomited-up by one of her cats. This particular worm is a type of tapeworm known as Spirometra. Cats and dogs get this worm by eating frogs. Spirometra infections can cause chronic diarrhea and weight loss. Needless to say, the owner made immediate arrangements to have her cats dewormed.
That's the worm next to my hand in the picture and it truly measured 18" when stretched out. The black end of the worm is the head (scolex).
Spirometra tapeworms are just one of many intestinal parasites that potentially plague our pets. Many of the parasites can also infect people, and all of the parasites have the ability to cause medical problems for our pets. All of our pets should be regularly examined for intestinal parasites to help protect their health. Pets that spend time outdoors should have a feces sample tested for worms 3-4 times each year. Indoor pets, such as the above 3 cats, should be tested at least once each year. Frequent testing and early diagnosis is just smart medicine.
There are several medications available to help prevent some of the more common parasites. These preventatives are frequently combined with products to help control fleas and ticks. Be sure to get your pets tested regularly and on proper preventative medication, don't wake-up to find your pet's worm sleeping on your pillow.
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