How to Get Rid of Tapeworms in Animals

Tapeworms are typically easy to spot--the white, wiggling segments catch on the fur beneath an animal's tail or show up in the animal's stool. These parasites live in an animal's intestines, where they latch on and drain the animal of needed nutrients. Getting rid of tapeworms means destroying the parasite's head so that it doesn't regenerate. It also means eliminating the source of the pet's infection, which is usually fleas, though rodents, beetles, roaches and water bugs may also be culprits.

Things You'll Need

  • Tapeworm medication
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Food processor
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Instructions

  1. Veterinary Help

    • 1

      Take your pet to a veterinarian. Even if your pet has all the tell-tale signs of tapeworms--small, rice-like segments around its rectum, for example--it is important to get a veterinarian's opinion. Your pet may have parasites or problems in addition to a tapeworm infestation.

    • 2

      Ask the veterinarian to administer a tapeworm shot or pill.

    • 3

      Monitor your pet for recurrence of the problem. Pay attention to his bowel movements to make sure there are no tapeworm eggs in his stool. Regularly check the fur around his rectum for tapeworm segments as well.

    On Your Own

    • 4

      Purchase tapeworm medication. If your veterinarian has previously treated your pet for tapeworms, he may be willing to sell you a de-wormer without requiring a new visit. Alternately, the FDA has approved praziquantel for over-the-counter use. You can purchase pills at a pet supply store.

    • 5

      Administer the tapeworm medication. Hold the animal securely and tilt back his head. With one hand, open the animal's mouth. With the other, place the pill on the back of his tongue. Close the animal's mouth, hold it shut and stroke his throat until he swallows the pill.

    • 6

      Check frequently for signs of reinfestation. Repeat tapeworm treatment if necessary.

    Home Remedy

    • 7

      Purchase whole, raw pumpkin seeds. The University of San Diego's health library cites the curcurbitin in pumpkin seeds as the reason for their efficacy in eliminating tapeworms.

    • 8

      Grind the pumpkin seeds to a fine powder using a food processor or seed grinder.

    • 9

      Add the ground pumpkin seed to the animal's food. Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats recommends adding between 1/4 tsp. and 1 tsp. to a meal, depending on the animal's size.