Taking care of your pet’s physical well-being is just as important as their overall happiness. Pet parents often consider their pet as a member of their family, and when they are sick or not feeling well, it’s critical to get to the bottom of the issue. If your cat or dog is experiencing distress and discomfort, it may be time to visit your veterinarian.

What Is Heartworm Disease?

The heartworm is a parasite that is transmitted through mosquitos. When an animal is infected, adult heartworms produce microscopic baby worms called microfilaria, which flow through the bloodstream.

When a mosquito bites the infected animal, they ingest the microfilaria along with the blood. Over several days, the baby worms mature into infective larvae. When the mosquito then bites another animal, the larvae enter the animal’s bloodstream through the bite wound. 

Once infected, the parasite will continue to grow and multiply, which can be life-threatening for your pet. Their lungs, heart, and bloodstream are at risk for damage that could linger long after the worm has left its host.

What Are the Symptoms? 

Dogs

The severity of symptoms is dependent on how many worms are living in your dog. Some of the most common symptoms include coughing, loss of energy after mild activity, and difficulty breathing.

Cats

Look for signs that include consistent vomiting, decreased playfulness or appetite, unexplained weight loss, and a persistent cough.

How Are Heartworm Infections Prevented?

Monthly medications and topical ointments are available that will help prevent heartworms from infecting your dog. However, they may reject the pill or lick off the ointment. Therefore, the best method of prevention is through routine testing with your veterinarian. 

Dogs under seven months are given preventative medications before a regular test can be performed since it takes six months for heartworms to become detectable. At the six month mark, dogs should be given a heartworm test by a veterinarian. From there, schedule annual examinations to ensure they haven’t become infected. 

If dogs become infected, vets prescribe melarsomine dihydrochloride or brands like Immiticide® or Diroban™. 

Cats are less likely to experience heartworms. However, unlike dogs, there are currently no drugs available to treat cats who are infected. Cats do have preventatives that come in spot-on or pill forms. Along with medications, annual testing with your vet is a necessity. 

Finding the right veterinarian for your pet is key to their happiness and well-being. That’s why residents in Lincoln, NE, turn to the team at A-4 Animal Hospital. They take your pet’s health and comfort seriously and will even make house calls for those who dislike going to the vet. They also offer boarding if you need a safe place for your animal to stay while you’re on vacation. To schedule an appointment to have your pet examined and tested, call (402) 475-2282. You can also find more information on their website.