Tapeworm Segment (Proglottid)
Scientific Name: Dipylidium caninum or Taenia species
Order & Family: Cyclophyllidea, Dipylidiidae or Taeniidae
Size: Typically 3 mm to 12 mm long (resembles a grain of rice or cucumber seed)
Natural Habitat
Intestinal tract of mammals (commonly dogs and cats); segments are found in feces or around the anal area of the host
Diet & Feeding
Parasitic; absorbs nutrients directly from the host's intestinal contents
Behavior Patterns
Once separated from the main tapeworm body, these motile segments (proglottids) crawl out of the host's anus or are passed in stool. As they dry out, they resemble sesame seeds or rice grains and release egg packets.
Risks & Benefits
Risk: Indicates an active parasitic infection in pets (or rarely humans). The intermediate host is usually a flea (for Dipylidium). While generally not life-threatening, heavy infestations can cause weight loss and irritation. Benefit: None.
Identified on: 2/7/2026