​ I am often asked if there is any natural dewormer one can use for our dogs and cats, because as fur parents we are always worried about overuse of dewormers etc

The following intestinal parasites are some of the most common types of dog worms (taken from Viera East Vet Centre):

• Roundworms: The most common dog worms of all types. Roundworms in dogs grow reach 3-5” long in adulthood, and they resemble a piece of wet spaghetti. Roundworms in dogs can be transmitted via the nursing process, by feeding on an infected animal, or by contact with the infected faeces of another animal.
• Tapeworms: Tapeworms in dogs have long and flat ⅛” segmented bodies that can grow to 8 inches in length. Tapeworms in dogs happen when a dog encounters or ingests a host that is carrying tapeworm eggs, like a bird or a flea.
• Hookworms: Hookworms in dogs are the smallest of all common dog worms varieties. Hookworms in dogs reside primarily in the small intestine. They grow to approximately one inch in length and feed on the blood. They can cause life threatening anaemia in dogs of all ages, but especially puppies. Hookworms are passed in the faeces, and can infect other animals and people too. *Hookworm can also stay in the ground for years. *My add in.
• Whipworms: Whipworms in dogs are about ¼” long and reside in the cecum and colon. Whipworms can cause severe damage to these organs, and are considered one of the most harmful dog worms in existence, but are also more geographically distinct than other dog worms.
• Heartworms: Heartworms in dogs live in the heart and pulmonary arteries. They are transmitted by infected mosquitoes, which migrate throughout the body over about 6 months before finally coming to rest in the circulatory system. Heartworms are transmitted only from an infected mosquito’s bite, and not within or between species. They are preventable and treatable, but can be fatal if not diagnosed and arrested before the advanced stages of infestation. (not common in South Africa)
• Ringworm: Ringworm, or dermatophytosis, is a skin disease caused by a fungus that results in lesions and sores on the epidermal (or outer skin) layer. Interestingly enough, ringworm is not caused by a worm at all, but rather by an infection of dead layers of skin, hair and nails. Ringworm is curable, but treatment can take time and the condition can be very painful.

Another worm, found in South Africa is Spirocerca lupi.  It is a deadly worm that lives in a dog’s oesophagus after a long journey through the body. On its journey to the target organs (oesophagus and aorta) S. lupi causes serious damage that leads to disease of the intestinal, respiratory and circulatory system.



Worms in Cats:

• Roundworms
• Hookworms
• Tapeworms
• Whipworms

There are also a number of less commonly diagnosed worms in cats that can cause serious health problems and can even be fatal, including:

• Lungworms
• Stomach worms
• Bladder worms
• Liver flukes
• Heartworms

As you can see from the above there are a lot of different worms that animals can get and it affects their health and can even be fatal.  Signs of worms are in dogs are:

• Weight loss accompanied by a marked increase or decrease in appetite
• Distended abdomen, or ‘pot-bellied’ appearance
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea/chronic soft stools
• Chronic coughing
• Dulling of coat and/or hair loss accompanied by skin irritation/inflammation
• Rubbing or dragging the hindquarters across the ground
• Visible presence of segments of tapeworms in dogs attached to the skin and fur around the anus/hind quarters area
• Visible presence of roundworms in dogs in infected stool, like tiny grains of rice

Common signs of worms in cats include (taken from PETMD):

• Vomiting (sometimes with worms in the vomit)
• Diarrhoea (with or without blood)
• Tarry faeces
• Weight loss
• Distended abdomen
• Skin lesions
• Generally poor body condition and a dull coat

As infestations worsen and symptoms progress, you may see signs such as:

• Weakness
• Dehydration
• Pale lips and gums due to anaemia
• Low blood pressure
• Shock
• Death, in the most severe cases

As an Animal Aromatherapy Specialist, my recommendation is to do faecal floats at your vet to check for worms and that way one only deworms with traditional deworming when necessary.  And of course prevention as much as possible.  Pick up the animals stools 3 times a day if necessary especially if you have dogs that eat poop.  

When it comes to essential oils there are oils we can use like Thyme for example, but these need to be worked out by a qualified Animal Aromatherapy Specialist. I have a range specifically made for dogs and cats, so please contact me to purchase yours

If you would like a consultation with me, to purchase essential oils or find out when my next class is, please contact me on +27 769414079 or email ingridliberte.loveofanimals@gmail.com

The information provided is for educational purpose only and is not a substitute for vet care.  The statements made about the essential oils, blends, recipes and products mentioned have not be evaluated by the FDA.  The information given is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure or prevent disease.  It is always recommended to consult with a vet or healthcare professional.