How can my puppy/kitten have worms? How was he/she exposed?

How can my puppy/kitten have worms? How was he/she exposed?

Almost all puppies are born with intestinal parasites, which are passed from mother to pup during pregnancy. Although kittens are not infected when they’re born, they can become infected through their mother’s milk. Puppies can also become infected while they’re nursing.

Puppies and kittens should both be dewormed at least once and then a stool sample should be checked by a veterinarian. Then monthly deworming with a heartworm preventative product (at about 8 to 9 weeks of age for kittens and 12 weeks of age for puppies).