Vet Guide 2025: Common Worms in Reptiles & Amphibians 🦎 by Dr Duncan Houston 🩺

Hello! I’m Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc and founder of Ask A Vet. Worms—intestinal parasites—are surprisingly common in captive reptiles and amphibians. While a light worm load may not cause problems, heavy infestations can lead to poor growth, health decline, and even death. This in-depth 2025 guide covers types of worms, clinical signs, diagnostic methods, treatment, prevention, and zoonotic considerations to help you protect your exotic pets.

1. Why Worms Matter

In the wild, low parasite loads are normal. In captivity, however, enclosed environments facilitate reinfection and high worm burdens :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. Heavy infestations can cause:

• Poor growth or weight loss
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Anemia (especially hookworms)
• Lethargy and secondary infections

2. Common Worm Types

2.1 Roundworms (Ascarids & Strongyloides)

Include intestinal species such as Ophidascaris and Hexametra. Life cycles may involve rodents or occur directly. Symptoms include malnutrition, GI lesions, and regurgitation in snakes :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

2.2 Hookworms (Kalicephalus)

Hook to the GI lining, drawing blood and causing anemia, weight loss, and respiratory signs if larvae migrate :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

2.3 Pinworms (Oxyurids)

Common in bearded dragons, tortoises, and geckos. Low numbers are often asymptomatic, but heavy burdens can cause diarrhea and appetite loss :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.

2.4 Tapeworms (Cestodes)

Require intermediate hosts (insects, rodents). Often found via rice-like segments in feces. Heavy burdens may cause weight loss and GI upset :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

2.5 Flukes (Trematodes)

Rare in indoor reptiles, but possible in turtles using aquatic environments. Flukes can infest intestines, lungs, liver, kidneys :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

3. Recognizing Worm Burdens

• Weight loss or failure to thrive
• GI signs: diarrhea, vomiting
• Visible segments in feces (tapeworms)
• Weakness or respiratory changes (hookworms)

4. Diagnosing Worms

• Fecal flotation microscopy—standard method; requires fresh sample :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
• Fresh smear: detects larvae or motile protozoa (e.g., Strongyloides).
• Repeated sampling may be needed due to intermittent shedding.

5. Treatment Protocols

Prescription dewormers following vet guidance are recommended. Typical options:

• Fenbendazole: Broad-spectrum; 50 mg/kg PO for 5–10 days, repeat in 2 weeks.
• Praziquantel: Effective for tapeworms; dose per reptile species.
• Ivermectin/Levamisole: Used in some species—vet-prescribed only.

Supportive care (fluids, nutrition) may be required in heavy infestations.

6. Prevention & Environmental Management

• Maintain clean enclosures: remove feces, disinfect substrate regularly.
• Freeze bedding or replace to eliminate eggs/larvae :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
• Quarantine new animals 60–90 days and perform fecal screening.
• Avoid feeding raw prey that may harbor parasites.
• Wash hands and equipment between handling or tank cleaning.

7. Zoonotic Considerations

Though rare, some reptile worms are zoonotic. Good hygiene (handwashing, glove use, cage cleaning) is essential :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}. Consult your physician if exposed and symptomatic.

8. When to Use Ask A Vet 🩺

Unsure about your reptile’s weight, fecal results, or deworming needs? Use the Ask A Vet app to send fecal images, weight charts, and enclosure photos—get expert advice on deworming schedules, supportive care, and follow-up. Visit AskAVet.com 📱

9. Final Thoughts

Worms are common yet manageable in reptiles and amphibians. With regular fecal screening, vet-prescribed treatments, and rigorous enclosure hygiene, most pets remain healthy and thriving. In 2025, proactive parasite management and Ask A Vet support ensure long-term wellness for your exotic companions. 🩺🌿

— Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc