Internal Parasite Care in North Houston

At TEXAVET, we strive to deliver quality care and attention to support your pet’s well-being. We provide preventive measures and treatment for internal parasites, promoting your pet’s overall health and longevity. Our mobile vet team collaborates with you to address your pet’s needs and enhance their quality of life.

We focus on preventive strategies to reduce the risk of internal parasites and offer testing to confirm that your pet is parasite-free. If we identify any parasites, we will take the necessary steps to treat them effectively and restore your pet’s health. Call us today to learn more about our care for internal parasites in North Houston!

What Are Internal Parasites?

Internal parasites live inside a host’s body and derive nourishment at the host’s expense. These parasites typically reside in various internal organs, such as the intestines, lungs, heart, or other body systems. Internal parasites can cause multiple health issues, from mild discomfort to severe illness, depending on the type of parasite and the extent of the infestation. Common examples include:

Roundworms: These are large intestinal worms that can grow up to several inches long. They can cause gastrointestinal issues, including vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Puppies and kittens are particularly susceptible to roundworms, which can be transmitted from their mother.
Tapeworm: Tapeworms are flat, segmented worms that attach to the intestinal wall. Pets may show signs such as weight loss and itching around the anus. Tapeworms are often acquired through ingesting fleas or small rodents that carry the larvae.

Hookworm: Hookworms are small, hook-shaped worms that attach to the intestinal wall and feed on blood. They can cause anemia, weight loss, and gastrointestinal problems. Hookworms can be transmitted through contaminated soil or by contact with infected feces.
Heartworm: Heartworms are long, thread-like worms that live in the heart and lungs of infected pets. They are transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause severe health issues, including heart failure and lung disease. Early detection and treatment are crucial to managing heartworm infections effectively.

How to Avoid Internal Parasites

To keep your pet safe from internal parasites and support their health, following preventive measures and good health practices is crucial. Making these practices part of your pet care routine can lower the risk of internal parasites. Key strategies to help reduce the chance of your pet getting internal parasites include:

Regular Vet Checkups:

Schedule routine veterinary exams to detect and address parasitic infections early. Our vet can recommend appropriate treatments and preventive measures.

Preventive Medications:

Administer regular preventive medications as recommended by our veterinarian. These medications can help protect against common parasites like heartworms, roundworms, and fleas.

Maintain Hygiene:

Keep your pet’s living environment clean. Regularly clean bedding, toys, and areas where your pet spends time. Dispose of feces promptly and safely to reduce the risk of contamination.

Healthy Diet:

Feed your pet a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain a strong immune system, which can help resist parasitic infections.

Heartworm Care for Dogs

Our process for managing heartworm for your dog starts with a focus on prevention. We recommend a year-round heartworm prevention medication to protect your dog from infection. We conduct annual heartworm tests to monitor this preventive measure’s effectiveness. These tests help detect any early signs of heartworm disease. If a test result indicates that your dog has contracted heartworms, we refer them to a full-service clinic where they receive a comprehensive treatment plan. This specialized care is crucial for effectively addressing and managing this internal parasite in dogs.

Treatment and Prevention of Internal Parasites

Our process for managing internal parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms involves a thorough and proactive approach for both cats and dogs. We begin with a comprehensive examination to identify any signs of parasitic infections. If parasites are detected, we prescribe and administer targeted deworming medications specific to the type of parasite identified. This provides effective treatment and relief from the infection.

In addition to treatment, we focus on prevention to minimize the risk of future infestations. We provide preventive medications tailored to your pet’s needs, which helps protect them from contracting these parasites. Regular deworming schedules are recommended, along with routine checkups to monitor for any potential issues. We also advise maintaining a clean living environment and observing your pet for any signs of parasites. By incorporating these practices into your pet’s care routine, we aim to keep cats and dogs healthy and free from internal parasites.

Internal Parasite FAQs

Our team understands internal parasites can seem scary, and you may have questions. Our knowledgeable team is ready to answer your questions and guide you throughout your pet’s treatment and prevention. Common questions regarding internal parasites include:

Can my pet get internal parasites from other animals?

Yes, internal parasites can be transmitted from other animals. Pets may pick up parasites through contact with infected animals, exposure to contaminated environments, or ingesting parasite larvae or eggs. Keeping your pet away from potentially infected animals and maintaining a clean environment can help lower this risk.

Can internal parasites cause long-term health problems?

Yes, untreated internal parasites can lead to long-term health problems. Severe infestations might result in anemia, malnutrition, and organ damage. Identifying and treating these parasites early is essential to avoid lasting health issues.

How can I monitor for internal parasites at home?

Regularly check your pet’s stool for signs of worms or unusual consistency. Observe for any changes in behavior, appetite, or weight. Regular vet visits in our office and fecal exams are the most reliable ways to detect internal parasites.

Internal Parasites in North Houston

At TEXAVET, we’re committed to giving your pet the highest care possible to keep them healthy and happy. We offer both prevention and treatment for internal parasites to help your pet live a longer, healthier life. By partnering with you, we tailor our approach to meet your pet’s needs and enhance their quality of life. If your pet needs care for internal parasites in North Houston, call us today!