An alarming number of pet owners confessed to neglecting worming treatments for their pets because they haven't seen any symptoms of worms, according to a new study
A study of 2,000 pet owners found that one-third had encountered unpleasant situations due to neglecting to deworm their dogs or cats. Unwormed pets often became restless and aggressive, with common signs including hair loss from excessive scratching and the appearance of worm segments in bedding or vomit.
Nearly a quarter of participants admitted their pets had previously suffered from worms, and yet, the idea of their pets harbouring these parasites made 70% of owners feel queasy. When shown a microscopic image of a worm, an astonishing 80% compared the parasite to something out of a horror or alien movie.
Despite the risks, 19% of pet owners confessed they weren't overly concerned about the impact of worms on their pets' health, and a shocking 37% were unaware that some worms can infect humans too.
When asked about potential symptoms via OnePoll.com, respondents identified an itchy bottom (60%), visible worm segments (46%), and weight loss (46%) as tell-tale signs.
Drontal, the company behind the survey, has launched a series of fictional film posters inspired by ‘alien' invaders residing in your pet's gut. The posters, titled ‘The Purrasite Within' and ‘The Furmidable Infestation', aim to raise awareness about the issue.
The hand-drawn and painted posters, created by artist Graham Humphreys, known for his iconic artworks for A Nightmare on Elm Street, Drawing Blood, and Castle of the Living Dead, feature catchy taglines like ‘a nightmare in nine lives' and ‘your best friend just got unwelcome visitors'.
Luke Gamble, a vet and founder of the global animal health charity, Worldwide Veterinary Service, warned: “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.”
Pet owners admitted to neglecting worming treatments for their pets due to a lack of symptoms. Many found it difficult to administer the necessary tablets, while others underestimated the risk or were simply unaware that their pets needed worming.
While 36% of pet owners believe in a quarterly worming schedule, 23% think it should be done monthly. Experts suggest that the recommended frequency is either monthly or every three months, depending on the pet's lifestyle.
“Thankfully,” Luke added, “there is a way to defend your pets from these ‘purrasites' and also get rid of them if they do invade your pet and make an unwelcome appearance in your home.”
He further recommended: “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.
“And keep the ‘horror' of worms firmly in the imagination – and on these posters.”