As a pet parent, you want your dog or cat to stay happy and healthy. One simple step that makes a big difference is regular deworming Intestinal parasites—like roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms—are common. They spread through soil, feces, fleas, or even hunting. Without treatment, these parasites can cause serious problems. But deworming is easy and brings many benefits.
Why Deworming Helps Your Pet’s Health
Regular deworming keeps your pet strong and full of energy. Here are the main benefits:
- Prevents diarrhea, vomiting, and poor appetite.
- Stops anemia (low red blood cells), especially in puppies and kittens.
- Supports healthy weight gain and growth in young pets.
- Improves coat quality and overall vitality in adult dogs and cats.
Puppies and kittens are at highest risk. Parasites steal nutrients and can slow their development. Studies in veterinary journals show that treated pets have far fewer infections and stay healthier.
Protects Your Human Family Too
Some parasites can spread to people (called **zoonotic diseases**). For example:
- Roundworms (Toxocara) can cause eye or organ damage, especially in children.
- Hookworms can lead to skin irritation or other issues.
Deworming reduces these risks. It also keeps your yard and home cleaner by lowering parasite eggs in the environment.
Recommended by Experts
Veterinary groups like the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) and ESCCAP suggest:
- Treat puppies and kittens every 2 weeks until 8 weeks old, then monthly.
- Deworm adult dogs and cats at least 4 times a year (or more if they go outdoors or hunt).
- Use broad-spectrum dewormers (such as those with pyrantel, praziquantel, or fenbendazole).
Always follow your vet’s advice based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and location.
Emerging Research – Potential for Future Usage
Early research is exploring whether some deworming medications, like fenbendazole (found in Panacur), might have potential anticancer effects. Lab and animal studies have shown promising results, such as:
- Slowing cancer cell growth.
- Disrupting how tumors use energy.
- Helping trigger the death of certain cancer cells
This work is still in the preclinical stage — meaning it has only been tested in cells and mice, not yet in living pets or people. While the findings are intriguing and researchers are continuing to investigate, no clinical trials have confirmed these effects in pets or humans. At this time, these drugs are not approved or recommended for treating cancer in pets, however, we look forward to the future results of these studies.The best step is always to talk openly with your veterinarian about any health concerns. They can guide you based on the latest science and your pet’s individual needs.
Your Pet’s Health Starts Here
Deworming is a safe, affordable way to protect your pet and family. It’s a small step that supports a long, healthy life. Talk to your vet about the best schedule for your furry friend. Stay proactive—your pets will thank you!
If you would like to schedule your pet’s appointment for deworming, please schedule via our online booking portal, or call us at 972-353-9672 where a member of our team will be happy to assist you. We look forward to serving you at our full-service vet clinic in Lewisville, TX.
