Tapeworm Facts

Dogs and cats can be infested with two types of tapeworms. Fleas carry the most common type, and rodents carry the less common type. Tapeworm segments are often visible on the surface of your pet’s stool. They usually appear as short (1/2-3/4”), flat, white particles, that when first passed are mobile; or they may be passed still connected in a long, flat string. Dry segments may stick to your pet’s hair, and look similar to a grain of rice. Until recently, the only effective control has required a prescription. However, this drug (Praziquantel) is now available without a prescription, and is 100% effective in ridding your pet of both types of tapeworms.