Worms vs. Parvo: How to Spot the Difference

Worms and parvo are two common canine ailments that can cause similar symptoms. So how can you tell if your dog has worms or parvo? Read on to learn the key differences between these two conditions and how to spot the signs of each.

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Symptoms: Worms vs. Parvo

Worms

• Types of worms: Roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms
• Symptoms:
  • Weight loss
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Anemia
  • Lethargy
  • Pot-bellied appearance
• Transmission:
  • Ingesting eggs or larvae from contaminated soil, food, or water
  • Contact with infected animals

Parvo

• Type: Canine parvovirus (CPV)
• Symptoms:
  • Bloody diarrhea
  • Lethargy
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fever
• Transmission:
  • Direct contact with infected dogs or their feces
  • Contaminated surfaces

Identifying the Difference

While worms and parvo share some common symptoms, there are a few key differences that can help you differentiate between the two:

Type of Diarrhea

• Worms: Typically causes soft, mucoid diarrhea
• Parvo: Causes severe, bloody diarrhea

Vomiting

• Worms: May or may not cause vomiting
• Parvo: Usually causes persistent vomiting

Lethargy

• Worms: May cause mild lethargy
• Parvo: Causes extreme lethargy and weakness

Loss of Appetite

• Worms: May reduce appetite
• Parvo: Causes complete loss of appetite

Transmission

• Worms: Ingestion of eggs or larvae
• Parvo: Direct contact with infected dogs or their feces

Treatment

Treatment for worms and parvo varies depending on the type of infection.

Worms

• Deworming medication to kill the worms
• Antibiotics to treat any secondary bacterial infections

Parvo

• Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration
• Anti-nausea medication to control vomiting
• Blood transfusions to correct anemia
• Antibiotics to prevent sepsis

Prevention

Worms

• Regular deworming as recommended by your veterinarian
• Keep your dog away from areas where other dogs may have defecated
• Wash your hands after handling soil or animal waste

Parvo

• Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent parvo
• Keep your dog away from unvaccinated dogs and areas where parvo has been reported
• Disinfect any surfaces that may have been contaminated with parvo

Comparison Table: Worms vs. Parvo

Conclusion

Worms and parvo are both serious canine ailments, but they can be treated effectively if diagnosed early. By understanding the key differences between these two conditions, you can help your dog get the prompt diagnosis and treatment they need to recover quickly.

For more information on dog health and wellness, check out our other articles:

• [How to Spot the Signs of Ear Infections in Dogs](link to article)
• [Preventing Heartworm Disease in Dogs](link to article)
• [Essential Tips for Grooming Your Dog at Home](link to article)

FAQ about How to Tell if Your Dog Has Worms or Parvo

How do I know if my dog has worms?

Worms:

• Visible worms in stool or vomit
• Diarrhea with mucus or blood
• Weight loss
• Potbellied appearance
• Lethargy
• Dull coat

How do I know if my dog has parvo?

Parvo:

• Severe vomiting and diarrhea
• Bloody stool
• Lethargy and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Abdominal pain

What are the clinical signs for worms and parvo?

Guidelines for P-A-S:

P:

• Pale mucous membranes: Check your dog’s gums and the inside of their eyelids. If they are pale, it could indicate anemia caused by blood loss from worms or parvo.

A:

• Abdominal pain: Gently press on your dog’s abdomen. If they react painfully, it could indicate intestinal inflammation or pain from worms or parvo.

S:

• Shock: Check your dog’s capillary refill time (CRT). Apply pressure to their gums for a few seconds and then release. If the gums take longer than 2 seconds to return to their original color, it could indicate shock from severe dehydration or blood loss.