When you visit the veterinarian, you’re often reminded of the importance of protecting your furry friend from parasites. With various parasites posing a threat, it’s essential to stay informed and understand the risks involved. As we celebrate Heartworm Awareness Month this April, we encourage you to learn about heartworm disease and how to protect your pet. Here are some facts:

Mosquitoes are the culprits: These tiny insects, known for causing itchy bites and spreading diseases, can also transmit heartworm infection to pets. They pick up immature heartworm larvae when biting infected animals and pass them on to other pets through subsequent bites.

Heartworm is widespread: Once considered prevalent mainly in warm, humid regions, heartworm has now been reported in all 50 states. Factors like pet transportation, expanding mosquito habitats, and climate changes contribute to its spread, making all pets across the country vulnerable.

Serious health implications: Once inside a pet, heartworms mature, grow up to a foot long, and travel slowly to the heart and lungs, where they cause inflammation and damage inside major blood vessels, or the heart and lungs themselves. Pets can host up to 100 heartworms.

Signs may not be evident: Initial infection is nearly impossible to detect because the worms can take months or years to mature to adulthood and reproduce, which is when signs appear, and significant damage has already occurred by that time. Signs of heartworms in pets may include:

  • Exercise intolerance
  • Coughing
  • Poor appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Heart failure

Prevention is key: Monthly heartworm preventives are recommended for all pets, providing protection against heartworm infection and controlling other worm types. Consistent prevention is essential, as any lapse can leave pets vulnerable to infection.

Challenges in treatment: Treating heartworm infection in cats is particularly challenging, as safe treatment options are limited. For dogs, treatment can be lengthy, painful, and expensive, emphasizing the importance of prevention.

Regular testing is essential: Routine heartworm testing is recommended for all pets, even those on preventive medication, to ensure their well-being and the effectiveness of the preventive regimen.

By staying proactive and informed, you can effectively protect your beloved pet from the dangers of heartworm disease. Feel free to reach out to any of our Cara Veterinary locations for personalized guidance on heartworm prevention and care during your pet’s next wellness visit. We’re here to support you and your furry companion every step of the way.