Parasites can cause your pets discomfort that can prevent them from being active and affect their quality of life. At Pasquotank Animal Hospital in Elizabeth City, our team provides treatments that will provide your cat or dog relief and help improve their overall health. Before you schedule your appointment, learn more about some symptoms of parasites and why treatment is important below:
Importance of Pet Wellness Exams
One of the first steps in helping keep your pet’s health in good condition is to schedule a pet wellness examination with our veterinarians. During the exam, we will complete a thorough evaluation. If this is your pet's first visit, we will assess your pet’s overall health, ask questions about its lifestyle, and make provide recommendations for any necessary treatments.
Understanding Parasites in Pets
The two most common parasites that affect cats and dogs are fleas and ticks. When pets are exposed to these parasites, they may begin to itch or scratch excessively, which can lead to infections. Not only that, but your pet can also be infected with diseases.
Symptoms of Parasites in Pets
Parasites can cause a variety of symptoms in pets. Some of these symptoms include:
- Excessive scratching
- Biting and chewing at their skin
- Hair loss
- Red bumps on their skin
- Weight loss
- Overeating without gaining weight
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Change in behavior
Parasite Prevention for Pets
Whether your pets stay indoors most of the time or is outside a good part of the day, they can become infected with fleas and ticks carried by an infected animal. It’s important to keep your pet’s bedding, crates, and food bowls clean, as parasites tend to breed in unsanitary environments. If your cat or dog becomes infected, it is essential that it receives treatment as soon as possible. If left untreated, parasites can lead to several health conditions that may be fatal. Our veterinarian will discuss the treatments available for parasite prevention with you. Treatments may include chewable medication or in application form and are available over-the-counter or by prescription.
Contact us for an Appointment Today!
Whether your cat or dog needs a pet wellness exam, pet vaccinations, or parasite prevention, our team at Pasquotank Animal Hospital in Elizabeth City, NC, is happy to help. To learn more about our services or to schedule your appointment, contact us at (252) 264-3371 today. When you need a veterinarian near me, we are ready to assist you!