Vet-reviewed

Parasites

The Parasites section explains the internal and external parasites that can affect your pet’s health, offering guidance on how to recognize signs of infestation, prevent exposure, and protect them year-round.

20 articles

All Parasites articles

cat ear mites as cute cat looks at camera
Parasites

Cat Ear Mites or Fleas: What’s Bugging Your Cat?

Many cat parents look for answers when a cat starts scratching, shaking its head, or acting uncomfortable, unsure whether the problem stems from cat ear mites or fleas.

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Athena Gaffud
Jan 13, 2026
fleas on cats as feline scratches
Parasites

Fleas on Cats: How to Spot Them and What to Do Next

Fleas on cats are among the most common external parasites veterinarians encounter, affecting both indoor and outdoor pets equally. These insects trigger itching, skin irritation, flea dirt on cats, hair loss, and, in severe cases, anemia or allergic reactions.

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Athena Gaffud
Jan 13, 2026
can indoor cats get fleas - as cat looks on from couch
Parasites

Can Indoor Cats Get Fleas or Worms? The Surprising Answer

Many cat parents assume indoor living provides complete protection from parasites, yet this belief creates a false sense of security. If you ever ask yourself, ‘Can indoor cats get fleas?’

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Athena Gaffud
Jan 13, 2026
common parasites in cats as feline walks on
Parasites

Common Parasites in Cats and How to Prevent Them

Parasites in cats, both internal and external, remain extremely common in kittens and adult cats, including those living strictly indoors. These organisms disrupt digestion, irritate the skin, dull the coat, and undermine overall health.

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Athena Gaffud
Jan 13, 2026
what are roundworms in dogs as dog smiles
Parasites

What Are Roundworms in Dogs? Signs and Treatment Tips

Roundworms rank among the most common intestinal parasites in dogs, especially puppies, and understanding them matters for every household. These long, spaghetti-like worms grow several inches and live inside the intestinal tract, where they steal nutrients and create a heavy burden that disrupts digestion.

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Athena Gaffud
Jan 13, 2026
tick-borne diseases can affect any dog
Parasites

Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs: What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know

Ticks have become increasingly widespread due to climate shifts and changes in wildlife populations, posing a significant threat to dogs across many regions.

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Athena Gaffud
Jan 13, 2026
hookworms in dogs can be dangerous as cute pup looks on
Parasites

Hookworms in Dogs: Symptoms, Dangers, and How to Protect Your Pup

Hookworms are among the most common intestinal parasites affecting dogs, and hookworms in puppies pose the greatest concern. These tiny worms attach to the lining of the small intestine and feed on blood, leading to significant health problems.

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Athena Gaffud
Jan 13, 2026
Fleas on Dogs: What They Look Like and How to Stop Them
Parasites

Fleas on Dogs: What They Look Like and How to Stop Them

Fleas on dogs are fast-moving, blood-feeding parasites that trigger intense itching, restlessness, and skin irritation, making quick action essential for a dog’s comfort and health. Many dog parents struggle to distinguish normal scratching from signs of fleas on dogs, especially when symptoms resemble seasonal allergies or sensitive skin issues. Clear guidance helps reduce confusion and supports early intervention.

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Athena Gaffud
Dec 3, 2025
heartworm in dogs as dog looks on
Parasites

Heartworm in Dogs: How to Prevent This Silent Killer

Heartworm in dogs is a serious yet preventable disease transmitted through infected mosquito bites. Immature worms travel through the bloodstream, settling in the heart and lungs, causing damage often unnoticed until advanced stages. This “silent killer” leads to subtle or absent symptoms of heartworm in dogs in the early stages. As the disease progresses, signs include coughing, fatigue, weight loss, and difficulty breathing.

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Athena Gaffud
Dec 3, 2025
Permethrin for Dogs and Cats
Parasites

Permethrin for Dogs

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Webvet Editorial Team
Dec 1, 2025
Selamectin for Dogs and Cats
Parasites

Selamectin for Dogs and Cats

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Webvet Editorial Team
Dec 1, 2025
Fluralaner for Dogs and Cats
Parasites

Fluralaner for Dogs and Cats

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Webvet Editorial Team
Dec 1, 2025
Moxidectin for Dogs and Cats
Parasites

Moxidectin for Dogs and Cats

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Webvet Editorial Team
Nov 27, 2025
Ponazuril for Dogs and Cats
Parasites

Ponazuril for Dogs and Cats

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Webvet Editorial Team
Nov 27, 2025
Toltrazuril for Dogs and Cats
Parasites

Toltrazuril for Dogs and Cats

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Webvet Editorial Team
Nov 27, 2025
Nitenpyram for Dogs and Cats
Parasites

Nitenpyram for Dogs and Cats

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Webvet Editorial Team
Nov 27, 2025
Praziquantel for Dogs and Cats
Parasites

Praziquantel for Dogs and Cats

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Webvet Editorial Team
Nov 27, 2025
Pyrantel Pamoate for Dogs and Cats
Parasites

Pyrantel Pamoate for Dogs and Cats

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Webvet Editorial Team
Nov 27, 2025
Afoxolaner for Dogs and Cats
Parasites

Afoxolaner for Dogs and Cats

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Webvet Editorial Team
Nov 27, 2025