Roundworm Treatment for Animals

Roundworms are parasites found in the digestive tract of animals, typically dogs and cats. Roundworms can cause adverse health effects in humans as well as animals. Treatment of roundworms involves giving the animal a worm medication that kills the roundworms.

  1. Identification

    • According to Pet Education.com, adult roundworms live in the small intestine of the affected animal. Three types of roundworms most commonly affect animals. The Toxacaris leonina is most commonly found in the dog, cat, fox and other wild carnivorous animals. Toxacara canis, which infects dogs and fox. The Toxacara cati is found in the cat.

    Medication

    • Medication or dewormers are available for the treatment of roundworms in animals. According to Marvistavet.com, these dewormers work by anesthetizing the worms, making them lose their grip on the small intestine. The roundworms then pass through the animal's stool. Deworming medications do not kill the roundworm larvae. The animal must receive a second treatment a few weeks after the first treatment to kill any new worms.

    Types

    • The types of dewormers used in the treatment of roundworms include Febantel, Piperazine and Moxidectin. These are active ingredients in many worm medications available over-the-counter or from your veterinarian.