While soil supports plant life and offers numerous ecological benefits, the substance can harm pets. Dogs and cats often come in contact with soil through digging, playing, inhaling, and even consuming it. So, what harm can a bit of dirt cause your furry pal? Our Liberty Veterinary Hospital team explains how soil endangers pets and how to mitigate these hazards.

Parasite eggs that can harm pets

Soil often contains parasite eggs that curious pets may ingest. The following parasites can harm your pet: 

  • Roundworms (Toxocara canis, Toxocara cati) — Cats and dogs can easily be infected with roundworms,  which are common parasites. Pets may ingest the eggs from contaminated soil. Once inside the body, these worms can cause gastrointestinal (GI) issues, weight loss, and even more severe conditions such as liver and lung damage.
  • Hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum, Ancylostoma tubaeforme) — Hookworm larvae in the soil can penetrate pets’ skin, leading to skin irritation, anemia, and digestive disturbances. These worms feed on the host’s blood, causing significant health issues, especially in kittens and puppies.
  • Tapeworms (Echinococcus spp.) — Pets can ingest tapeworm eggs in dirt, leading to infections that can cause cysts to develop in their organs. These cysts are particularly dangerous and sometimes fatal if left untreated.

Fungal spores that endanger pets

Various fungi grow in soil, and their spores can be hazardous when ingested or inhaled by pets. Some common problematic fungi include: 

  • Histoplasma capsulatum — This fungus is found in soil contaminated with bird or bat droppings and can cause histoplasmosis, which can lead to respiratory issues, fever, and weight loss. Severe cases can affect pets’ organs, posing a serious health risk.
  • Blastomyces dermatitidis — This fungus thrives in moist soil, often around creeks, ditches, and low-lying areas. Pets can inhale or ingest the spores, resulting in blastomycosis. Signs include coughing, fever, weight loss, and lesions. If the infection spreads, it can affect a pet’s bones, skin, and organs.

Bacteria that pose risks to pets

Dirt is teeming with microorganisms, including bacteria that play crucial roles in maintaining soil health and plant growth. However, some bacteria can be harmful to pets, including:

  • Leptospira spp. — This bacterium in wet, contaminated soil can cause leptospirosis. Pets contract this life-threatening illness through skin contact with contaminated soil or water. Signs range from mild flu-like conditions to severe kidney and liver damage.
  • Clostridium tetani — Present in soil, this bacterium causes tetanus. Pets can contract it through wounds or cuts exposed to soil. Tetanus leads to severe muscle stiffness and spasms, often requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

Viruses pets can contract through the soil

Many viruses can live for an extended period in soil, water, and other substances. A few such viruses include:

  • Canine parvovirus — Often surviving for months in soil, parvovirus, or parvo, is a highly contagious virus that unvaccinated dogs have a risk of contracting. Dogs contract this virus through direct contact with contaminated soil or feces. Signs include severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, often requiring intensive care.
  • Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) — Also known as feline distemper, FPV is a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus that affects cats. The virus can survive in the environment for months and is spread through contact with infected bodily fluids, feces, or contaminated substances, such as soil. Signs include high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, severe dehydration, and a significant drop in white blood cell count.

How to protect pets from hazards that lurk in soil

While your curious pet may always want to play and dig in the soil, redirect them to another activity, such as a game of fetch. Keep your pet leashed when you’re on walks to prevent them from getting into dirt. Constant supervision is vital when exploring the great outdoors with your four-legged friend. Additionally, maintain your pet’s vaccines and parasite preventives to safeguard against parasites and infectious diseases.

While soil is a natural and often unavoidable part of your pet’s environment, being aware of this substance’s hidden dangers can help you take preventive measures. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure your furry friend remains healthy and happy while enjoying the outdoors with you. To help determine whether your pet has contracted a soil-borne condition, schedule their wellness exam with our Liberty Veterinary Hospital team.