Roundworm: the risk to people and pets

Roundworm: Do you know the risks?

Roundworm is a common internal parasite that can affect dogs and cats of all ages, particularly puppies and kittens.

It can cause digestive problems, poor growth and other health issues in pets. Roundworm can also affect people, so it is important to understand how it spreads, recognise the possible symptoms and keep your pet’s worming treatment up to date.

How is roundworm transmitted?

Puppies and kittens are particularly susceptible to roundworm. Depending on the species of roundworm, they may become infected before birth or soon afterwards through their mother’s milk.

Dogs and cats can also pick up roundworm from their environment, including dog parks. Microscopic eggs are shed in the faeces of an infected animal and can contaminate soil, sand and other surfaces. If a pet ingests these eggs, the larvae develop and eventually become adult worms in their intestines, continuing the cycle.

Pets may also become infected by hunting or eating animals that carry roundworm larvae, including rodents. This can present an additional risk for cats that hunt outdoors.

Many people do not clean up their dog or cats poo daily, to learn more about why this is important to do, read our blog on that topic HERE.

Signs and symptoms of roundworm in pets

Roundworms feed on nutrients within the intestinal tract. This can lead to malnourishment and, in puppies and kittens, poor growth and weakness.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

• A pot-bellied appearance
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Weight loss or poor growth
• A dull coat
• Coughing as larvae migrate through the lungs

You may also notice roundworms in your pet’s poo or vomit. They are usually white or light brown, several centimetres long and often look like spaghetti.

Some infected pets show no obvious symptoms but may still pass roundworm eggs in their faeces.

These signs can also be caused by other illnesses, so take your dog or cat to a veterinarian for appropriate testing and treatment.

Can roundworm affect people?

Roundworm is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to people.

People can become infected if they accidentally swallow microscopic roundworm eggs from contaminated soil, sand, hands or surfaces.

Children may face a higher risk because they are more likely to play in parks, gardens and sandpits where animals may have toileted and may be less likely to wash their hands thoroughly.

Most human infections cause no symptoms or only mild illness, but roundworm larvae can cause serious health problems in some cases if they migrate through the body or affect the eyes.

Anyone concerned about possible exposure should seek medical advice.

Preventing roundworm in pets and people

Good hygiene and appropriate parasite protection can help reduce roundworm risks for the whole family:

• Pick up and dispose of dog and cat poo promptly.
• Remove faeces from backyards and litter trays every day.
• Wash your hands after handling pets, cleaning litter trays or picking up poo.
• Encourage children to wash their hands after playing outdoors or in sandpits.
• Cover sandpits when they are not being used.
• Discourage pets from hunting, scavenging or eating faeces.
• Keep your dog or cat’s worming treatment up to date.
• Arrange regular veterinary health checks.

Roundworm protection for dogs and cats

NexGard SPECTRA for Dogs protects against roundworm and other important intestinal worms, as well as fleas, ticks, mites, lice and heartworm, in one monthly chew.

NexGard SPECTRA Spot-On for Cats also provides monthly protection against roundworms and other important internal and external parasites.

Visit the NexGard SPECTRA website to learn more. Always read and follow the relevant product label and never use a parasite treatment intended for dogs on a cat.

Frequently asked questions

What do roundworms look like in pet poo?

Adult roundworms are usually white or light brown, several centimetres long and may look like pieces of spaghetti. Their eggs are microscopic and cannot be seen with the naked eye.

Can humans get roundworm from dogs and cats?

People can become infected by accidentally swallowing roundworm eggs from contaminated soil, sand, hands or surfaces. Good hygiene and regular worming of pets help reduce the risk.

Are puppies and kittens more likely to have roundworms?

Yes. Puppies and kittens can acquire roundworm from their mothers and are particularly vulnerable to the effects of infection.

Can indoor cats get roundworm?

Yes. Indoor cats may still be exposed through contaminated items brought into the home or by hunting rodents that enter the house. Their individual risk should be discussed with a veterinarian.

What should I do if I see worms in my pet’s poo?

Contact your veterinarian for advice. If possible, take a clear photograph or safely collect a fresh sample, as this may help your vet identify the parasite and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Dr Melissa Meehan is a highly experienced and respected veterinary surgeon with over 14 years experience. Dr Melissa obtained her Members in Small Animal Medicine through examination in 2008 and now runs her own veterinary ophthalmology service.