Parasites - Annoyance and harm for companions

About Parasites and parasitism

Parasitism involves two species: the parasite and the host.

• The parasite lives on or in the host for a significant period of its life – it is always the beneficiary.
• The host metabolism is used by the parasite to obtain nourishment – it is always the provider.

Many parasites do not harm their hosts excessively while others produce pathological changes that may result in disease of the host organism. For successful control and treatment of parasitic diseases, a comprehensive understanding of the nature of the parasites-host interactions is required.

Companion animals' parasites

In general there are two different groups or parasites: ectoparasites and endoparasites.

• Ectoparasites live on the host, affecting skin, fur, or ears. The most common ectoparasites of companion animals are fleas and ticks.
• Endoparasites live inside the host, affecting the gastrointestinal tract, liver, or other internal organs. The most common endoparasites of companion animals are worms.