How Dogs and Cats Catch Whipworms
Whipworms are named for their tapering, whiplike shape. Cats and dogs catch whipworms by eating or licking food, water, or surfaces contaminated with whipworm eggs, though the infection is far more common (and usually more serious) in dogs than cats. Eggs are passed in the feces of infected animals and require about a month to mature before they are infectious, after which they can remain infectious for more than a year.
Can People Catch Whipworms from Dogs or Cats?
People have been infected with T. vulpis, the whipworms that commonly afflict pets, but this is rare. Humans are far more likely to catch the human whipworm, T. trichiura.
Symptoms and Treatment of Worms in Cats and Dogs
For symptoms of intestinal worms, as well as treatments and ways to protect your pets and human family members against infestation, see Symptoms, Treatments, and Prevention of Intestinal Worms.
For more cat articles, see the main Cats page. For more dog articles, see the main Dogs page.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for veterinary consultation and care.
References:
- Bower, J., & Bower, C., Drs. (1998). The Cat Owner’s Problem Solver. Pleasantville, NY: Reader’s digest Association, Inc./Andromeda Oxford Limited.
- Feline Advisory Bureau. (2008). “Worming Your Cat.” FabCats.org.
- Fogle, B.American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. (1993). ASPCA Complete Dog Care Manual. New York, NY: DK Publishing Inc.
- Mar Vista Animal Medical Center. (2010).“Whipworms.” MarvistaVet.com.
- McLeod, L., DVM. (2010). “Whipworms in Dogs and Cats.” About.com.
- Nash, H., DVM. (2011). “Whipworms (Trichuris Serrata).” PetEducation.com.
- PetMD.com. “Whipworms in Cats” and “Whipworms in Dogs.”