Tapeworm Segment (Proglottid)
Scientific Name: Dipylidium caninum (most common dog/cat tapeworm)
Order & Family: Cyclophyllidea, Dipylidiidae
Size: Segments are roughly the size of a grain of rice or a sesame seed (approx. 1/8 to 1/2 inch long).
Natural Habitat
Intestinal tract of dogs and cats; externally found near the animal's anus, on bedding, or in pet fur.
Diet & Feeding
The adult worm lives in the host's intestine and absorbs nutrients from the host's digested food.
Behavior Patterns
These segments detach from the main worm inside the host and exit via the anus. Fresh segments can expand and contract (pulsating movement). Once dry, they look like sesame seeds or dried rice grains.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Indicates a parasitic infection in a pet. Can cause anal itching (scooting). Ingestion of infected fleas by humans (rare, usually children) can lead to human infection. Benefits: None.
Identified on: 3/10/2026