
Dogs and cats with worms may show signs such as weight loss, scooting, vomiting, diarrhoea, or a dull coat. Some pets show no symptoms at all, which is why regular checks are important.
Worms often affect both dogs and cats, but they can be hard to notice. Many pets carry worms without clear symptoms, so it helps to know what early signs to look for.
If you’re wondering “what are the signs of worms in dogs?” or “what symptoms do cats show with worms?”, this guide will help you identify the key signs and understand when action may be needed.
Dogs and cats can be affected by several types of intestinal worms, including:
Each type of worm affects pets in its own way, but most cause similar symptoms.
Dogs can show different symptoms depending on how many worms they have. If you’re unsure whether your dog has worms, look for a combination of digestive changes, weight loss, and behaviours such as scooting.
Common signs include:
Cats often hide their symptoms, but there are still signs you can look out for.
Common symptoms include:
It’s just as important to know when to treat worms as it is to spot the signs.
You should consider treatment if:
Pets can still have worms even if you don’t see any symptoms.
One of the hardest things about worms is that pets often seem perfectly healthy.
This is because:
That’s why it’s important to give regular preventative care and check your pet often.
If worms are not treated, they can harm your pet’s health over time.
Potential effects include:
Sometimes, worms can spread to people, too, so preventing them helps keep everyone in your home safe.
Certain worms can spread from pets to people, especially if you have a lot of close contact with your animals.
Children are more at risk because they might touch soil, surfaces, or pet waste that has worms.
To lower the risk, try these simple steps:
Maintaining good hygiene and regular care helps keep both your pet and your family safe.

| Moderate | Possible Severity |
| Occasional scooting | Mild |
| Weight loss | Moderate |
| Vomiting worms | Moderate to severe |
| Bloated stomach (puppies) | Severe |
| Lethargy | Moderate |
If you think your pet may have worms:
Take note of any changes in behaviour, appetite, or digestion.
Look for visible signs such as worms in faeces or around the tail.
Treating worms early can stop problems from getting worse and keep them from spreading.
If you notice signs of worms in your pet, taking action right away can help keep them healthy.
There are different treatments for dogs and cats that target common intestinal worms and help stop them from coming back. The best choice depends on your pet’s age, weight, and lifestyle.
Here are some products that are often used:
Always follow the instructions on the product or ask your veterinarian for advice when choosing a treatment.
The best way to protect your pet is to prevent worms in the first place.
Tips:
Looking after your pet’s health means more than just controlling parasites.
You may also find these helpful:
Common signs include scooting, weight loss, diarrhoea, vomiting, and visible worms in faeces.
Cats may show vomiting, weight loss, poor coat condition, or worms near the tail.
Yes, many pets show no symptoms, especially in the early stages.
Regular monitoring is recommended, especially for pets that go outdoors.
If untreated, worms can affect nutrition, growth, and overall health.
If you’ve seen signs of worms or just want to keep your pet healthy, take a moment to review how you manage parasites. The right routine can help your dog or cat stay healthy, comfortable, and protected all year.