Education

Top Signs Your Dog or Cat Needs Deworming

Rivka Garfinkel
November 14, 2025

Learn the top signs your pet needs a dog or cat dewormer. Discover safe, fast-acting solutions like Chew + Heal Stop the Worms Dewormer.

Rivka Garfinkel
About the author

Rivka Garfinkel

A lifelong animal lover with holistic care experience, our author shares practical, trustworthy, and fully vet-approved insights to keep your dog healthy and thriving.

Introduction: The Hidden Problem Inside Your Pet’s Belly

If your dog or cat has been feeling tired, losing weight, or acting strangely, there may be an invisible culprit behind their discomfort: worms. Parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms can cause serious health issues if left untreated. Unfortunately, many pet parents don’t realize their furry friend has worms until the symptoms become hard to ignore.

That’s why understanding the signs your dog or cat needs deworming — and knowing how to act fast — is essential for your pet’s long-term health and happiness.

1. How Do Pets Get Worms?

Worms are incredibly common, and pets can pick them up from:

  • Contaminated soil or feces during walks or outdoor play.

  • Fleas (especially for tapeworms).

  • Infected prey (like rodents or birds).

  • Mother-to-puppy or mother-to-kitten transmission during nursing.

Even indoor cats aren’t safe — flea exposure, grooming habits, or a single trip outside can lead to infection.

2. The Most Common Types of Worms in Dogs and Cats

  • Roundworms: The most common intestinal parasite, especially in puppies and kittens.

  • Hookworms: These attach to the intestinal wall and feed on blood, leading to anemia.

  • Tapeworms: Caused by ingesting fleas or small animals, often seen as white “rice-like” segments near the tail.

  • Whipworms: Affect dogs more than cats and cause digestive distress.

  • Heartworms: Spread by mosquitoes and can be deadly without treatment.

Each type has different symptoms, but all can make your pet feel miserable and put other animals (and even humans) at risk.

Recognizing the Signs: Is Your Pet Infected?

1. Visible Worms in Stool or Vomit

If you see small white or tan worms in your pet’s stool or vomit, it’s a clear sign of infestation. Roundworms look like spaghetti, while tapeworms resemble grains of rice.

2. Changes in Appetite

Some pets eat more but still lose weight. Others lose interest in food altogether. Any unexplained appetite change can signal a problem.

3. Weight Loss or Poor Coat Condition

Worms steal nutrients, leading to dull fur, dry skin, or sudden weight loss.

4. Scooting or Licking the Rear Area

If your dog drags their bottom on the floor or your cat licks excessively under the tail, it may be an attempt to relieve irritation from worms.

5. Bloating or Pot-Bellied Appearance

Puppies and kittens with roundworms often have swollen bellies.

6. Diarrhea, Vomiting, or Coughing

Intestinal and respiratory worms can trigger digestive distress or coughing spells.

7. Low Energy and Weakness

If your once-playful pet suddenly becomes lethargic, it could be due to parasitic anemia or malnutrition.

General Solutions: How to Handle Worm Infestations

1. Visit Your Veterinarian

A vet can confirm which type of worm your pet has through a fecal exam and recommend the appropriate treatment.

2. Maintain Clean Living Conditions

  • Regularly clean litter boxes and outdoor areas.

  • Dispose of pet waste promptly.

  • Wash your pet’s bedding weekly.

3. Prevent Re-Infestation

Always treat all pets in the household, since parasites can easily spread.

4. Deworming Schedule

Most vets recommend deworming:

  • Puppies: Every 2 weeks until 12 weeks old, then monthly.

  • Kittens: Every 3 weeks until 9 weeks old, then monthly.

  • Adults: Every 3–6 months, or as recommended by your vet.

Introducing the Solution: Chew + Heal Stop the Worms Dewormer

Why Choose Chew + Heal?

If you’re looking for an easy and effective way to eliminate worms, Chew + Heal Stop the Worms Dewormer is your go-to solution.

This dog and cat dewormer is a fast-acting liquid formula designed to paralyze and expel roundworms safely and effectively. Whether you have a puppy, kitten, or adult pet, it’s gentle enough for regular use and powerful enough to restore their energy and appetite.

Key Benefits:

  • Dual-purpose: Suitable for both dogs and cats.

  • Liquid formula: Easy to mix with food or administer directly — ideal for picky pets.

  • Fast-acting results: Works quickly to paralyze and eliminate worms naturally.

  • Safe ingredients: Vet-formulated and free of harsh chemicals.

  • Made in the USA: Backed by strict quality standards for pet safety.

Dog after getting Chew + Heal dewormer liquid

How to Use Chew + Heal Stop the Worms Dewormer

  1. Shake well before use.

  2. Administer directly or mix with your pet’s favorite food.

  3. Follow dosage instructions based on weight.

  4. Repeat as directed for continued protection.

You’ll start noticing improvements like increased energy, better appetite, and normal stool within days.

Chew + Heal liquid dewormer for dogs and cats

Quick Tips: Preventing Worms Before They Start

Keep Fleas Away

Since fleas can carry tapeworms, it is recommended to use flea prevention year-round.

Regular Vet Checkups

Routine fecal exams help catch infestations early.

Clean Up After Walks

Dispose of waste properly and wash your hands afterward.

Avoid Raw or Undercooked Meat

Raw feeding can expose pets to parasites.

Did You Know?

  • Puppies are often born with worms, which is why early deworming is vital.

  • Some worms are zoonotic, meaning they can spread to humans.

  • Regular deworming supports a stronger immune system and better nutrient absorption.

Conclusion: Protect Your Pet, Protect Your Home

Your furry friend depends on you for their health and comfort. Worm infestations can be scary — but with awareness, routine care, and the right product, your pet can bounce back quickly.

Give your dog or cat the protection they deserve with Chew + Heal Stop the Worms Dewormer, a trusted, vet-approved solution that works fast, tastes great, and keeps your best friend healthy inside and out.

Recommended Product

Chew + Heal Stop the Worms Dewormer — The perfect solution to help your pet recover fast and stay healthy.
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FAQs 

  • How often should I deworm my dog or cat? Most adult pets should be dewormed every 3–6 months. Puppies and kittens require more frequent treatment during early development.
  • Can I use the same dewormer for both my dog and cat? Only if it’s specifically formulated for both species, like Chew + Heal Stop the Worms Dewormer.
  • Are there side effects to deworming? Mild digestive upset can occur, but this is temporary. Always follow dosage guidelines.
  • How can I tell if the dewormer worked? Watch for visible worms in stool and note improvements in appetite, energy, and stool consistency.
  • Can humans catch worms from pets? Yes. Some intestinal worms can pass to humans. Regular deworming protects both your pets and family.
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Stop The Worms Wormer for Puppies & Kittens

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