Dipylidium caninum, The “Flea Tapeworm” of Dogs and Cats: Everything You Need To Know
In this Vetpocket™ article, Dr. Danelia de Kock provides a comprehensive clinical breakdown of Dipylidium caninum, the most common tapeworm affecting dogs and cats. From its complex indirect life cycle involving the flea or louse as an intermediate host to the specific morphology of proglottids and egg packets, this guide serves as an essential reference for the modern veterinary team. We explore diagnostic nuances, such as why traditional fecal flotations often yield false negatives, and provide anthelmintic dosing protocols to help ensure successful treatment.