Infestation with worms can be bad for your pet's health, and some worms pose a threat to humans too. Worming should begin from an early age. Puppies and kittens can can become infected with worms even before they are born or via their mothers milk when feeding.
Cats
When you collect your kitten from the breeder they should already have been treated for worms. You should continue to treat them for worms on a monthly basis until they are 6 months old. Worming frequency may then be reduced to every 3 months and should be continued throughout adulthood. However if young children are present in the household or regularly come into contact your cat then monthly treatment is recommended long-term.
Adult cats can contract worms from the environment especially if they are keen hunters or scavengers. Cats that hunt regularly should be wormed every 4-6 weeks.
Dogs
When you collect your puppy from the breeder they should already have been treated for worms. You should continue to treat them for worms on a monthly basis lifelong to prevent round and tapeworms being passed onto humans and to prevent lungworm (see below).
Lungworm
Cases of lungworm are becoming more common. The parasite is acquired from slug/snails (purposeful/accidental ingestion). Lungworm can make your pet seriously ill and can potentially be fatal. We now recommend worming monthly throughout life in order to prevent this serious disease.
Remember regular worming is important not only for your pet's health but for you and your family’s health as it is possible for worms to be passed onto humans.