Can hookworms spread to humans?

Some hookworm species can pose a transmission risk between animals and people. Use good hygiene when handling contaminated soil or faeces, and ask your vet or healthcare provider if you have concerns.

What should I do if I see worms or bloody stool?

If you see blood in the stool or visible worms, arrange a vet visit promptly and bring a fresh stool sample or photos for faecal testing. Follow your vet's advice for any further tests and treatment.

How long after deworming can hookworm clearance be confirmed?

A follow-up visit or repeat faecal test is usually needed within 2-4 weeks after treatment to confirm the parasites have been cleared. The exact timing should follow your vet's recommendation.

How can I prevent hookworm infection in dogs and cats?

Keep the environment clean, clear litter trays or faeces regularly, deworm on the schedule recommended by your vet, and avoid letting pets contact contaminated soil.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Hookworm Disease in Dogs and Cats: Diarrhoea, Anaemia, Faecal Testing & Deworming Care [2025]

Hookworms live in the small intestine and feed on blood, which can lead to anaemia. Young animals are especially at risk. Regular deworming is an effective way to prevent and treat infection.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: CAPC, AVMA

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Persistently pale or white gums or oral mucous membranes
•Ongoing black tarry stools or large amounts of bright-red blood in stool
•Extreme weakness, inability to stand, or loss of responsiveness

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Soft or watery diarrhea lasting more than one day
•Noticeably decreased appetite or changes in water intake
•Frequent coughing or abnormally increased respiratory sounds

01What symptoms suggest something is wrong?

Hookworm infection often affects digestion and overall wellbeing. Common signs include diarrhoea, gastrointestinal bleeding, anaemia, and sometimes respiratory symptoms.

Ongoing soft stools or watery diarrhoea, sometimes with fresh blood or mucus
Black, tarry stools, which may suggest bleeding in the upper digestive tract
Frequent coughing or changes in breathing sounds, especially in kittens and puppies
Reduced activity, prolonged panting after exercise, or a faster heartbeat
Pale gums or other mucous membranes, with easy tiredness or weakness

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Gums or oral mucous membranes that remain clearly pale
⚠️ Ongoing black, tarry stools or a large amount of fresh blood in the stool
⚠️ Difficulty breathing, severe wheezing, or worsening rapid breathing
⚠️ Extreme lethargy, slow responses, or inability to stand normally

02How can you assess abnormalities at home? Key observations and emergency warning signs

Observation and records before the vet visit can support clinical assessment. Focus on stool changes, energy level, and bringing a stool sample if possible.

Record the time, frequency, and appearance of each episode of diarrhoea
Take a short video of any coughing or abnormal breathing to show your vet
Observe and note changes in mood, activity level, and whether your pet tires easily
Save a fresh stool sample, or bring a refrigerated stool sample for testing
Watch for recent changes in appetite and water intake, and note when they started

03How will the vet diagnose it? Common tests

At the clinic, your vet will start with a physical examination and may add faecal tests, blood tests, and imaging when needed to confirm infection and assess your pet's overall condition.

Physical examination

assesses dehydration, mucous membrane colour, and body temperature

Faecal testing

microscopic examination for parasite eggs or rapid tests to check for blood

Blood tests

assess whether anaemia or an inflammatory response is present

Biochemistry tests

check liver and kidney function and electrolyte status

X-rays or ultrasound may be used when needed to assess lung or abdominal changes

04How should you treat and care for your pet after diagnosis? Medication, diet, and home care

Treatment mainly involves deworming, together with supportive care and regular follow-up testing to confirm the parasites have been cleared and your pet is recovering.

Follow your vet's deworming plan and schedule follow-up checks
Provide supportive treatment when needed for anaemia or dehydration
Support nutrition and monitor changes in appetite and water intake
At home, watch for changes in energy level, stools, and breathing
Return for follow-up visits and faecal or blood tests to confirm clearance

05What should you prepare before seeing the vet? Key details that help clarify the cause

Write down when the illness started and how the symptoms have changed

List recent feeding details and any changes in appetite or water intake

Record stool frequency, stool colour, and whether any blood is present

Bring a fresh stool sample or photos of the stool for testing

Prepare recent medication, supplement, and vaccination records

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.