Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and affects both dogs and cats. Although this disease infects both species, it affects each of them in different ways.
Most dogs infected with heartworms do not show any signs of disease for up to two years. Unfortunately, by the time clinical signs are seen, the disease is well advanced. The signs of heartworm disease depend on various factors; the most obvious signs being a soft, dry cough, shortness of breath, weakness, nervousness, listlessness, and loss of stamina. All of these signs are most noticeable following exercise, when some dogs may even faint. In some cases, severely infected dogs may die suddenly during exercise or excitement.
Cats, both indoor and outdoor, can also be affected by heartworm disease. Unfortunately it is harder to diagnose in cats due to their body’s response to the juvenile and adult worms. Some signs that an infected cat may show include: shortness of breath, coughing, and rapid breathing. Other signs include weight loss and vomiting, but these can also be symptoms of other serious causes. In some cases, heartworm positive cats can appear normal but may die suddenly without apparent cause. This is due to a reaction in the lungs to juvenile worms or when an adult worm enters the arteries in the lungs and obstructs blood flow.
Luckily, heartworm disease is easy to prevent in both dogs and cats. Preventative comes in the form of a once-a-month oral tablet or topical skin application. Administering heartworm preventative is a safe and effective way to prevent this troublesome disease. Once-a-year heartworm testing (required for all canine patients) combined with year-round preventative can keep your pet happy and heartworm-free for its entire life!
