Here’s something no one tells you when you bring home a furry bundle of joy: worms can be a whole-family problem. That’s right — some intestinal worms in dogs and cats can actually infect humans, too.
It’s not super common, but it is possible. And while it sounds like a horror movie plot (“The Parasite That Came From the Backyard!”), it’s really just a matter of knowing what to watch for and how to stop it before it starts.
Let’s get into it!
What is Zoonotic Transmission?
Zoonotic transmission is a fancy term for when something passes from animals to people. In this case, we’re talking about worms like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms that can hang out in your pet’s digestive tract and, in the right circumstances, make their way into yours.
How? Usually through parasite eggs that are shed in poop. Those eggs can end up in soil, sand, grass, or even on your pet’s feet. From there, it’s surprisingly easy for them to hitch a ride into your house... and maybe even into you.
Gross? Yes. Preventable? Absolutely.
Types of Worms That Pets Can Pass to People
Roundworms
If you’ve got a puppy or kitten, chances are you’ve heard of these. Roundworm eggs are invisible to the naked eye thanks to their microscopic size, and they can survive in soil for years. Kids are most likely to pick them up while playing outside, but adults aren’t off the hook either. All it takes is not washing your hands before grabbing a snack after scooping the yard.
In rare cases, these worms can travel through the body and land in places they definitely don’t belong—like the liver, lungs, or eyes. Definitely not what you want to be dealing with on a Monday.
Hookworms
These guys don’t even need you to swallow anything. They can sneak in through the skin—like, say, the bottom of your bare foot when you’re out in the backyard. The result? Itchy, red, squiggly lines under the skin that can last for weeks. It’s called “cutaneous larva migrans,” but we prefer to call it “yet another reason to wear shoes outside.”
Tapeworms
Here’s where fleas come in. If your pet swallows a flea carrying tapeworm larvae (usually while grooming), they can end up with tapeworms. And if a person (usually a kid) accidentally swallows an infected flea? Same deal. Is it common? No. But it’s a thing.
Who’s Most at Risk of Catching Worms from Pets?
Young kids. Pregnant people. Seniors. Anyone with a compromised immune system. Also, anyone who forgets to wash their hands after cleaning the litter box or scooping poop (we’ve all been there).
Even if your pets stay indoors, they’re not totally in the clear. Fleas, rodents, and shoe traffic can bring parasite eggs right to their food dish.
How to Protect Your Family (and Stay Worm-free)
Support Your Pet’s Gut Health Every Day
Worms thrive in digestive systems that are sluggish, stressed, or out of balance. But a well-supported gut? That’s a much tougher place for parasites to settle in. A strong digestive system not only helps your pet feel their best—it also creates an environment that’s less welcoming to unwanted visitors.
Arrowleaf Pet Intesti Care is a daily digestive support powder for cats and dogs that helps keep things moving and balanced. It’s made with natural ingredients like diatomaceous earth, pumpkin seeds, slippery elm, and ginger, which are known for their gut-soothing, cleansing, and nutrient-boosting benefits. Just scoop it into their food and go. No mess, no stress, and no suspicious looks from your pet. It's gentle enough for daily use, and powerful enough to make a difference.
Whether you’re looking to prevent future worm issues or just support everyday digestion, this is an easy win.
Use a Natural Dewormer When You Spot Signs
Sometimes worms sneak through, even with the best routines. If you notice signs like bloating, scooting, or visible worms in your pet’s stool, it’s time for something stronger. That’s your cue to act quickly—and naturally.
Arrowleaf Pet D Wormer is a natural herbal deworming tincture formulated to help cleanse the digestive tract and support internal balance. It features wormwood, black walnut, papaya leaf, and other traditional botanicals that have been used for centuries to help the body gently expel common parasites like roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms.
It’s best used as a short-term cleanse when you suspect an active infestation or want to follow up on seasonal worm exposure. Easy to mix into food or give directly, it’s a plant-based way to get your pet back on track without the chemicals.
Note: Arrowleaf Pet D Wormer is not currently available for sale in Canada.
Scoop the Poop (every single time)
Worm eggs live in feces. Feces ends up on paws, grass, patios… you get it. Don’t leave it to chance. Grab the bag, do the deed, and save yourself a headache later.
Wash Your Hands Like it’s 2020 Again
After yard work, litter box duty, or outdoor playtime, a quick handwash can go a long way. Especially if snacks are involved.
Stay on top of flea prevention
Because fleas aren’t just annoying, they’re also the tapeworm’s favorite Uber.
The Bottom Line
Worms are a gross little fact of pet life. But with a few good habits and the right natural tools, you can keep your household clean, your pets comfy, and your own insides parasite-free.
Start with Arrowleaf Pet Intesti Care to keep your pet’s digestion strong and uninviting to squatters. Keep Arrowleaf Pet D Wormer on hand for the times when worms manage to sneak through. And above all, remember: prevention is way easier (and less gross) than dealing with an outbreak.
From gut health to daily wellness (and the occasional clean-up crew), we’ve got natural support for every stage of your pet’s health. Browse our full collection to find the right fit for your furry companion—whatever they’re dealing with, we’ve got their back (and belly).
