184 PARASITES OF THE DOMESTIC ANIMALS 



from the same plate. It follows that human infection with this tape- 

 worm occurs more often among children than among adults. 



As in tseniasis of other animals, the presence of a few of these worms in 

 man is not likely to occasion serious disturbance, though to the human 

 conception, the presence of a tapeworm in the intestine is anything 

 but a pleasant thing to contemplate. Where they are numerous, the 

 irritation, possible obstruction, and other secondary complications which 

 may arise, make it, as in lower animals, a more serious condition. 



Prevention calls for restraint in the liberties of dogs, especially about 

 children. Children should not be permitted to handle vagrant and 

 neglected dogs. Those kept about the premises as pets should be ob- 

 served for indications of the presence of tapeworms, and their bodies 

 should be kept free from fleas and lice. 



Cestodes of the Cat 



Of the tapeworms harbored by cats, only the species Taenia tcenice- 

 formis is of importance as affecting their health. Others which have 

 been found are: Dipylidium caninum, Echinococcus granulosus, and 

 Diphyllobothrium latum, the first two described under 

 the Tseniidse of the dog. These latter forms do not 

 appear to cause disturbance to the animal. 



Taenia taeniseformis (T. crassicoUis). Taeniidse 

 (p. 170). — The head (Fig. 100) is rounded, has four 

 prominent suckers and a strong rostellum provided 

 with 26-52 hooks. The neck is as wide as, or wider 

 than, the. head, and there is no intermediate constric- 

 FiG. 100.— Head of tion. The segments follow immediately from the head, 

 Taenia tseniaeformis, increasing in size to a length of 8-10 mm. (5/16-3/S 

 Neumann*) ^''"^'' ^f an inch) and a width of 5-6 mm. (M of an inch). 

 Length, 15-60 cm. (6-23 j^ inches). 

 Eggs globular, 31-37 microns in diameter. 



The larva is a cysticercus (Cysticercus fasciolaris) inhabiting the 

 liver of rats and mice. 



Occurrence and Symptoms. — This tapeworm is not uncommon 

 in the cat, often infesting the small intestine in large numbers and 

 seriously affecting the animal. 



There is in the beginning a diminution of appetite which gradually 

 passes to refusal to take any food whatever. Diarrhea, at first slight,, 

 later severe, is succeeded by constipation; there is salivation, and in 

 some cases vision and hearing are seriously affected. Colic is a frequent, 

 accompaniment during the attacks of which the animal may rush about 

 in a frantic manner, apparently heedless of or unable to see objects with, 

 which it may come in contact. 



