Tapeworm Segment (likely Cucumber Tapeworm)
Scientific Name: Dipylidium caninum
Order & Family: Order: Cyclophyllidea, Family: Dipylidiidae
Size: Each segment (proglottid) is typically 3-12 mm long (resembling a grain of rice or cucumber seed).
Natural Habitat
Primary habitat is the small intestine of dogs and cats; detached segments are frequently found on animal bedding, carpet, or near the pet's rear.
Diet & Feeding
Parasitic; absorbs nutrients directly through its skin (tegument) from the host's partially digested food.
Behavior Patterns
Mature segments detach from the main worm and pass out of the host's digestive tract; fresh segments are often mobile and may expand/contract before drying out into a hard, golden-brown, seed-like casing.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Indicates a parasitic infection in pets that requires treatment; causes anal itching (scooting) and weight loss. Transmitted via fleas (intermediate hosts). Low zoonotic risk to humans unless an infected flea is accidentally ingested.
Identified on: 2/5/2026