Ascarid Worms
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[edit] Introduction
These worms are also referred to as roundworms, they are one of the largest and most common of parasites infecting domestic animals. The parasites are contracted from an animals mother from placental migration or from the milk, or by ingesting the eggs. The eggs of these worms are very hardy and can stay in the environment for long of time. Once in the host animal these parasites migrate through the body before finally coming to rest in the small intestine. This migration can take 1 to 2 months depending on the animal.
[edit] Symptoms
The worms depend upon their host for survival so it is in the worms best interest not to kill its host. However large infestations of ascarid worms can cause problems. Large numbers can cause an obstruction of the small intestine. They can move into and obstruct the bile duct. The migration route can result in damage to the liver and lungs. An owner may notice the chicken is generally unwell and has a poor quality feathers. With heavy infestations worms may be vomited or passed in the stool. In the majority of pets with ascarid infections there are no apparent signs. In these cases detection can only be found by looking at the feces under a microscope.
[edit] Treatment
Several products are available for the treatment of worms which can be added to feed.
