When it comes to pet health, prevention is the most effective mode of protection. Heartworm disease is dangerous and potentially fatal, but dogs and cats on a veterinarian-prescribed preventative medication are at a significantly lower risk of contracting the parasite. The guide below explains why heartworm prevention is an essential part of pet care.

What Role Does Heartworm Prevention Play in Pet Health?

What Is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease is a life-threatening illness caused by foot-long parasites known as heartworms. They spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes and can infect cats, dogs, and many other mammals. Once inside the host, heartworms typically reproduce within the blood vessels, heart, and lungs. This can result in severe pet health issues like heart failure and lung disease.

Why Does My Pet Need Heartworm Prevention?

The key to protecting your pet from heartworm disease is with annual testing and preventative medication. During regular veterinary clinic checkups, your veterinarian will check for an existing infection. If they detect heartworms in dogs, they will set up a custom treatment plan before the disease can progress. There are currently no safe medical treatments for infected cats.

Heartworm preventatives target the parasites in the early stages of life to stop the cycle of infection. If the disease progresses, your pet could face serious internal damage that may turn deadly. To give them full protection, preventative medicine must be administered regularly and consistently.

When Should My Pet Receive Medicine?

Since mosquitoes are less common during the winter, many owners opt to provide pets with seasonal preventatives only. Some forego medication altogether for indoor pets. However, veterinarians strongly encourage year-round medication, no matter what your pet’s lifestyle is. Unpredictable weather can bring mosquitoes back when you least expect it, and they may find their way into your home. With year-round prevention, your pet will never be left vulnerable.

If your pet needs annual wellness testing and effective heartworm prevention, set up an appointment at Oak Crest Animal Hospital. This full-service clinic provides quality, individualized pet health care to the Greater Cincinnati, OH, area. From parasite control and dental care to advanced diagnostics and surgeries, their knowledgeable staff will go above and beyond to help your pet maintain a healthy, comfortable lifestyle. Call (513) 574-3647 to schedule a visit with a veterinarian today. Learn more about their services online.