Looking for a way to combat worms in your dog or cat? Ditch the chemical dewormers and reach for these natural solutions instead!
Chances are your dog or cat will get worms at least once in his life, if not several times. In fact, most vets recommend deworming three times a year. Chemical dewormers, however, can be harsh and have a whole host of side effects, so many animal parents are looking for safe natural alternatives to keep their fur babies parasite-free.
Dogs and cats pick up worms through normal daily activities such as playing in the backyard or dog park, walking where other animals have defecated, sniffing feces or garbage, and even through normal socializing with other animals.
The most common infestations involve roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms. Of these, only roundworms and tapeworms are visible in feces. Symptoms of a parasitic infection include low energy, diarrhea, vomiting, coughing, itching, change in appetite, scruffy coat, and weight loss. All infestations can cause severe malnutrition and anemia.
Maintaining a healthy intestinal tract is essential to preventing worm infestations. The following natural remedies can help create an intestinal tract that is naturally unwelcoming to parasites.
Diatomaceous earth
Food grade diatomaceous earth contains microscopic particles that pierce the protective coating of parasites in the digestive tract, dehydrating and killing them. Studies show DE is also useful in targeting the larvae and eggs of parasites.
Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain an active compound called curcurbitin, which paralyzes worms and prevents them from holding on to the intestinal walls, helping to excrete them during a bowel movement.
Ginger
Ginger supports digestive function and helps kill parasites in the stomach before they reach the intestines. Ginger also has antiprotozoal effects, making it useful against Giardia, Coccidia, and other protozoa.
Slipper elm
Slippery elm has a bulking and softening effect on stool, which helps in cleansing the bowels. Its mucilage not only provides lots of nutrients, but also draws parasitic toxins from the digestive tract.
Thyme
Thyme has antibacterial activity against bacteria like Coli, and antifungal effects against Candida. It also targets and expels all the life cycles of parasites.
Intesti care
NaturPet Intesti Care is a daily supplement that contains all five of these natural remedies to help maintain a healthy intestinal tract that’s free of parasites, keeping yout dog and cat, and your whole family, healthy. NaturPet Intesti Care is available in pet stores, at naturpetstore.com, and on Amazon.
