How to Get Rid of a Pet's Tapeworms

Tapeworms, albeit disgusting and creepy, are one of easiest intestinal worms to deal with when it comes to how they impact the body medically. Tapeworms can be found in pets of all types-from cats and dogs to fish and mice. What you may not realize is that the key component to getting rid of tapeworms is controlling your pet's environment.

Instructions

• 1

  Diagnose tapeworm infestation first. Although a veterinarian can test a stool sample, there are telltale signs you can look for at home beforehand. Look for short, white worms that expand and contract in your pet's stool. Also look for dried worms the size of a cucumber seed in your pet's bedding or around their rectum. All of these are good indications that your pet has tapeworms.

• 2

  Take a stool sample with you to the vet. If you've found any dried worms in the bedding or in your pet's fur around the rectum, collect a small sample as well. Even if you don't see tapeworms in the pet's stool, take a sample anyway. The vet can run a series of tests to rule out different maladies.

• 3

  Have your pet's veterinarian prescribe a tapeworm medication. Administer the medication either orally or by injection. The medication should kill the tapeworms within 24 to 48 hours.

• 4

  Kill all fleas on your pet and in your home. One infected flea can re-infect your pet with tapeworms. You must maintain a clean and flea-free environment for your pet to stay worm free.

• 5

  Keep your pet away from small animals and rodents if they are natural hunters. Do not let them sniff other animals' feces.

• 6

  Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences vomiting or diarrhea, if he continues to lose weight or fur or if you continue to see tapeworm segments after the treatment has been completed.