What are hookworms?
Hookworms are a common intestinal parasite of dogs and cats. An infestation can cause severe disease, especially in young or weakened animals.

Where do hookworms come from?
Hookworms can be ingested from infected soil, infected water or by eating an infected animal. Hookworm larvae can penetrate the skin where they travel through the bloodstream to the lungs. The larvae are then coughed up and swallowed. Puppies and kittens can be infected before birth or during nursing.

Can people and other pets be infected?
Other pets living in the same area are probably infected and should be treated. Humans usually do not contract and intestinal infection, but can contract a skin infection, often from working in infected soil or walking barefoot.

Clinical signs and symptoms.
An animal with a hookworm infection can become weak, thin and anemic, and have diarrhea with black tarry stools.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by examining the stool under a microscope to find eggs.

Treatment
Treatment is available from your veterinarian. Severe infestations may require supportive care.

Prevention
Good sanitation is important. Fecal material should be picked up from yards on a daily basis. Regular fecal tests are recommended to prevent serious infection. Some heartworm preventatives can treat hookworms; consult your veterinarian.
Humans should wash their hands frequently, especially after coming in contact with soil or sand.