Hookworms are small, thread-like parasites of the small intestine where they attach and suck large amounts of blood. These parasites are found in almost all parts of the world, being common in dogs, and occasionally seen in cats. Symptoms are usually diarrhea and weight loss. The parasites can actually suck so much blood that they cause pale gums from anemia, and black and tarry stools. Young puppies can be so severely affected that they die. Infection can be by ingestion of breast milk from an infected mother, by ingestion of infective eggs, or by skin penetration of infective larvae. Since the adult parasites are so small, they are rarely seen in the stool. Diagnosis of these parasites is by the veterinarian or laboratory finding the microscopic eggs in the stool. There are a variety of medications that can kill hookworms. The important point to know is that there is no one medicine that will kill all the types of intestinal parasites that exist. Some of the monthly "heartworm preventatives" will also work to treat hookworms. People exposed to hookworms can develop a rash called cutaneous larval migrans. Infective larvae, usually from contaminated yards, can penetrate human skin and cause red tracts. This updated guide includes the latest veterinary insights from 2026 on hookworm management, emphasizing early detection, effective treatments, and preventive strategies to protect pets and families.
In addition to diarrhea and weight loss, common signs include lethargy, poor coat quality, and dehydration. Severe infections can lead to melena (dark, tarry stools from digested blood), bloody diarrhea, and anemia, manifesting as pale gums and weakness. Puppies and kittens are at higher risk, with symptoms like failure to thrive, coughing, or skin irritations from larval penetration. A dog having dark diarrhea is a classic indicator of hookworm-related blood loss. Do hookworms cause blood in stool? Yes, they often result in bloody or dark stools due to intestinal bleeding.
Diagnosis typically involves fecal flotation tests to detect eggs, though advanced PCR tests are now common in 2026 for accurate identification. Transmission occurs via contaminated soil, ingestion of larvae or eggs, transplacental or transmammary routes in puppies, or percutaneous penetration. Hook.worm infections (hookworm) are zoonotic, posing risks to humans through skin contact.
What kills hookworms? Anthelmintic medications such as pyrantel pamoate, fenbendazole, milbemycin oxime, or emodepside effectively eliminate adult hookworms. Treatment often requires repeat doses every 2-3 weeks to target emerging larvae. In severe cases, supportive care like fluids, blood transfusions, or hospitalization may be needed. Many heartworm preventives (e.g., ivermectin/pyrantel) also treat and prevent hookworms when given monthly.
Prevent hookworms by administering monthly preventives, practicing good hygiene (prompt feces removal), avoiding contaminated areas, and regular deworming for puppies. Annual fecal exams are recommended. For humans, wear shoes in potentially contaminated soil to prevent cutaneous larva migrans.
Hookworm on face or skin refers to cutaneous larva migrans in humans, where larvae burrow under the skin causing itchy, red tracks or rashes. This occurs from contact with contaminated soil, not direct pet transmission. Seek medical attention if symptoms appear; treatment includes antiparasitic creams or oral meds.
If you're concerned about hookworms in your pet, contact Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists for expert diagnosis and care.
Anthelmintics like pyrantel, fenbendazole, or milbemycin oxime kill hookworms; repeat treatments and preventives are key.
Dark diarrhea (melena) in dogs often indicates hookworm infection due to intestinal bleeding; seek vet care immediately.
In humans, hookworm larvae can cause red, itchy tracks on the face or skin (cutaneous larva migrans) from soil contact.
Yes, hookworms cause blood in stool, often appearing as bloody diarrhea or dark, tarry stools from internal bleeding.
Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists delivers 24-hour emergency care and board-certified specialty services with advanced technology and compassionate treatment.
