Flea Tapeworm Segment (Proglottid)
Scientific Name: Dipylidium caninum
Order & Family: Order: Cyclophyllidea, Family: Dipylidiidae
Size: Individual segments are typically about 3-6mm long (resembling a cucumber seed or grain of rice); the full worm can reach 15-70cm in length.
Natural Habitat
Adults live in the small intestines of dogs and cats; segments are often found on the animal's fur near the anus, or on bedding/surfaces where the animal sleeps.
Diet & Feeding
The adult tapeworm absorbs nutrients from the host's partially digested food through its skin (tegument).
Behavior Patterns
The tapeworm sheds segments containing egg packets, which exit the host's body through the anus. These segments are mobile when fresh and can sometimes be seen moving. They eventually dry out to resemble grains of rice. Flea larvae ingest the eggs, continuing the cycle.
Risks & Benefits
Risk: They are parasites that can cause anal itching (
Identified on: 2/25/2026