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Parasites

  • Tapeworms and roundworms are two of the most common intestinal parasites of cats. Tapeworms are long flat worms composed of many individual segments whereas round worms are much shorter and have rounded bodies.

  • This is a disease caused by a protozoan (single celled) parasite found in dogs and certain rodents in many part of the world. Thankfully the disease is exotic to Australia (foreign) and our isolation and quarantine have afforded us protection from this disease. A type of tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus is widespread in Australia and this may act as a vector for the disease if it gains entry to our shores.

  • Lufenuron is prescribed for the control of fleas. It can also help in control of allergic skin disorders caused by fleas (flea allergy dermatitis).

  • Lyme disease (not Lyme's disease) is caused by a spirochete called Borrelia. It is transmitted to dogs through the bite of a tick.

  • Methoprene is classified as an insect growth regulator. It does not kill adult fleas. Your veterinarian has prescribed this medication for the control of the fleas.

  • Milbemycin is used for control of internal parasites. Your veterinarian has prescribed this medication for the prevention of heartworm infection.

  • Nitenpyram is used for the control of the fleas on dogs and cats. It kills adult fleas. You may also need to control the larval stages of fleas in the environment.

  • Nitroscanate is used to control roundworms and some types of tapeworms in dogs. Your veterinary surgeon will advise a deworming programme for your pet.

  • Interferons help the body to mount a defence against infections such as viruses. Omega Interferon is used in conjunction with fluid therapy and other supportive therapy for the treatment of parvovirus infection in dogs.

  • The otodectic mite usually infests the ears and can result in otodectic mange. This causes irritation leading to bacterial infections which can result in otitis externa.