Deworming Your Pet: How Often and Why It Matters

Intestinal worms are extremely common in South African pets, and they're easy to overlook because a pet can carry them without obvious signs. Some worms also spread to people — especially children — which makes regular deworming a family health matter, not just a pet one.

How pets pick up worms

Pets get worms from soil, faeces, fleas, hunting, and (for puppies and kittens) from their mothers. In our climate, the risk is year-round.

Signs to watch for

• A pot-bellied appearance, especially in puppies.
• Weight loss despite a good appetite, or a dull coat.
• Scooting, or visible worms or "rice grains" near the tail or in stool.
• Vomiting or diarrhoea.

How often to deworm

• Puppies and kittens: every two weeks until twelve weeks, then monthly to six months.
• Adult pets: generally every three months, or more often for hunters or homes with young children — ask your vet.
• Control fleas too, since fleas carry tapeworm.

Protecting your family

Wash hands after handling pets and gardening, pick up dog faeces promptly, and keep sandpits covered. Combined with routine deworming, these simple habits protect both your pets and the people who love them.