A third of pet owners admit to worm-related ‘horrors’ with their pets

Research involving 2,000 pet owners has revealed that a third have experienced unsettling consequences from failing to worm their dogs or cats. The most common signs reported included restless and aggressive behavior, hair loss caused by constant scratching, and the discovery of worm segments on bedding, or even vomit.

The prospect of their pets having worms makes many feel squeamish, with 68 percent admitting they find the idea gross. Despite this, nearly a quarter of those surveyed revealed their pets had suffered from worms in the past—twice, on average. When shown a microscopic image of a worm, eight in 10 participants claimed that the parasites resemble creatures from horror or alien films.

Despite this, only 20% of pet owners said they felt confident in identifying whether their pets had worms. Similarly, 19% admitted they were not particularly concerned about the health implications of worms, and 37% were unaware that certain types of worms can also infect humans.

To bring attention to this issue, Drontal has launched a creative awareness campaign featuring a series of fictional movie posters. These posters depict worms as “alien invaders” residing in pets' intestines, with titles such as “The Purrasite Within” and “The Furmidable Infestation.”

Created by artist Graham Humphreys, who is renowned for his work on classic horror films like A Nightmare on Elm Street and Castle of the Living Dead, the posters take a dramatic and unsettling approach. Taglines like “A nightmare in nine lives” and “Your best friend just got unwelcome visitors” underline the gravity of the issue.

Luke Gamble, a veterinarian and founder of the global animal health charity Worldwide Veterinary Service, commented:
“No cat or dog owner wants their pet to get worms, and these posters perfectly convey just how revolting parasites are. Not only are worms unpleasant to look at, but they’re also distressing for pets.

“Thankfully, with the right treatment, these creepy ‘purrasites’ can be managed and eradicated before they cause more problems for both pets and owners.”

The study revealed that 42% of owners admit to forgetting their pet’s worming schedule. Primary reasons for skipping treatment include:believing their pet had no symptoms, struggling to administer worming tablets, underestimating the risk of worms and being unaware of the need to worm their pets.

There also appears to be a lack of clarity on how often pets should be wormed. Experts say the worming schedule depends on your pet’s lifestyle, but it is generally advised to treat pets either monthly or every three months.

Speaking in partnership with Drontal, Luke Gamble emphasised the importance of prevention: “If you don’t know your pet has experienced worms – and you often won’t – due to the lack of signs – then it’s understandable you might not be that worried about your animal getting them.

 “But actually, the effects can be quite scary and serious. To avoid the horrors of parasitic worms invading your pets – and your own bed – it’s advisable to stick to a regular routine of giving your beloved pet its worming tablets.

He added: “The ‘horror’ of worms is firmly in the imagination – and on these posters.”