Parasite Prevention with our Veterinarian in Hayward, CA

Exposure to parasitic infestation is a health risk for any animal, especially for cats and dogs. Fleas, ticks, worms, and other parasites tend to bring disease, infection, and other health hazards. At Caring Pet Hospital, our Hayward veterinarians recognize that preventing an infection is much easier and even more cost effective than having to provide treatment after an infection has occurred. As a pet owner, here is what you need to know about parasites and how to prevent them.

Types of Parasites in Pets

A parasite is a living organism that feeds off the nutrients of other animals. Parasites often like to suck the blood of host animals. Parasite types include fleas, ticks, mites, heartworms, and tapeworms. Fleas are some of the most common; these wingless insects jump from host to host and lay eggs at landing sites.

Damage Caused by Parasites

While most cases of parasitic infection are fairly harmless, parasites can lead to urgent care for a pet. At the very least, these creatures cause skin agitation for a pet. However, they are capable of spreading disease and infection. Parasitic symptoms come in the form of:

  • Itching
  • Scratching
  • Abnormal discharge
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Dehydration
  • Cramping
  • Fever
  • Muscle aches
  • Weight loss

If your pet is exhibiting any of these symptoms, veterinarians recommend that you check him or her into a vet clinic. Your pet may be in serious need of emergency pet care.

Parasites can Lead to Further Health Complications

Parasites have been known to cause these diseases or infections:

  • Malaria
  • Pinworm infection
  • Canine influenza
  • Lyme disease

Parasite Prevention Methods

Pet owners can lower the risk of parasite infestation through the following methods:

  • Veterinary care – Getting direct advice from an animal doctor can be tremendously helpful for the pet’s wellbeing. Vets are also capable of performing comprehensive examinations that detect potential health problems.
  • Consistent grooming – Frequent bathing, coat combing, and nail clipping can help your pet avoid parasites. Parasites like to settle on the pet’s skin; keeping a cleanly coat will help remove an infestation.
  • Regularly cleaning your home and mowing your lawn –  Parasites tend to linger in unclean homes and unmown yards.

Contact our Veterinarians in Hayward for Parasite Prevention or Treatment

If your cat or dog has developed a parasite problem, the Caring Pet Hospital can help. Our other veterinary care services include wellness, dental care, diagnostic care, internal medicine, pain management, surgery, and emergency pet care. Keep your animal in top health by calling us at  (510) 537-1788 to schedule an appointment with our veterinarians in Hayward. We can take care of your pet in a safe and efficient manner.