Parasites: Why Annual Fecal Checks are Needed
Thanks to Jen_S from GC for this important information!
Round worms are very common in puppies and kittens as mom can transmit them directly to the babies, there are also different species, Hookworms are not just transmitted directly through fecal contact as the eggs that are shed in the fecal matter can live in the soil for years. Round worms are very easy to eradicate with medication. Tapeworms are transmitted by fleas. The fleas would not have to live on the sugar glider just jump on the glider, bite and get eaten when the glider gets itchy. Ticks can transmit Lyme's disease, Erhlichia canis, and Rocky Mountain Spotted fever but not heartworms. Heart worms are only transmitted by mosquitoes. They transmit the larval stage (microfilaria) that takes 6-9 months to mature into an adult that is around 12 inches long. Giardia is a one-celled protozoal parasite that can also live in the environment. And there are also whipworms. Lastly is coccidia (another one-celled protozoal parasite) that is common in puppies and kittens. And now you know why your vet recommends yearly fecal checks. Not only are your gliders at risk for these parasites but you can be too (though not with proper hygiene generally and don't walk outside barefoot).