Tapeworm Segment (Proglottid)
Scientific Name: Dipylidium caninum (most common for household pets)
Order & Family: Order: Cyclophyllidea, Family: Dipylidiidae
Size: Segments are typically 3-5mm long (resembling a cucumber seed or grain of rice); whole worms can reach 15-70cm.
Natural Habitat
Intestinal tract of hosts (dogs, cats, humans); shed segments are found in bedding, carpets, or on the fur near the anus of infected animals.
Diet & Feeding
The adult tapeworm absorbs nutrients mainly from the host's partially digested food in the intestines.
Behavior Patterns
Adult worms live in the intestine. They shed mobile, egg-filled segments (proglottids) that exit via the anus. These segments can crawl and eventually dry out to resemble sesame seeds.
Risks & Benefits
Parasitic infection causes discomfort, anal itching (scooting in pets), and mild gastrointestinal issues. They require an intermediate host (fleas) to transmit, so flea control is essential.
Identified on: 2/21/2026