What Is Heartworm Disease?
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by a parasite known as Dirofilaria immitis. These parasites are transmitted by mosquitoes and can infect cats, although cats are not their primary hosts. Heartworms live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels, causing severe damage to these vital organs.
How Do Cats Get Heartworm Disease?
When an infected mosquito bites a cat, it transfers immature heartworm larvae into the bloodstream. These larvae migrate and mature, potentially reaching the heart and lungs. Although cats are less likely than dogs to develop adult heartworms, even immature worms can cause severe health problems.
Signs of Heartworm Disease in Cats
Heartworm disease in cats often goes undiagnosed because the symptoms can be subtle or resemble other conditions. Common signs include:
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Persistent coughing
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Difficulty breathing (asthma-like symptoms)
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Vomiting
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Lethargy
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Decreased appetite
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Sudden collapse or sudden death (in severe cases)
Diagnosis of Heartworm Disease
Diagnosing heartworm disease in cats can be challenging. It typically involves a combination of:
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Blood Tests: Detecting the presence of heartworm antigens or antibodies.
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Imaging: X-rays or ultrasounds to assess heart and lung health.
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Clinical Signs: Evaluating symptoms and medical history.
Treatment for Heartworm Disease in Cats
Unfortunately, there is no approved medication to eliminate adult heartworms in cats, making prevention essential. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the cat’s health while the heartworms die naturally. Strategies include:
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Medications: To reduce inflammation and improve breathing.
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Monitoring: Regular veterinary check-ups to monitor heart and lung health.
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Supportive Care: Oxygen therapy or hospitalization in severe cases.
Prevention Is the Best Protection
Because treatment options are limited, prevention is crucial for protecting your cat from heartworm disease. Preventative medications are safe, effective, and should be given year-round. Even indoor cats are at risk, as mosquitoes can enter homes. At The Homtown Veterinarian, we most commonly recommend NexGard Combo and Revolution Plus for the prevention of heartworm and other parasitic diseases such as fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites. In addition to these trusted products, our online pharmacy carries a wide range of other preventatives, giving you even more options to meet your cat’s specific needs.
Learn More About Heartworm Disease
For a deeper dive into heartworm disease in cats, including risk factors, prevention tips, and the challenges of living with the condition, check out the blog post: A Veterinarian’s Breakdown of Cat Heartworm.
Why Choose Us for Heartworm Prevention?
At The Hometown Veterinarian, we understand the unique needs of cats and are committed to their well-being. Our team offers:
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Tailored heartworm prevention plans
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Comprehensive testing for accurate diagnosis
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Compassionate care and guidance throughout the process
Part of The Hometown Veterinarian Difference, our focus on prevention ensures your feline friend stays safe from heartworm disease. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your cat’s heartworm prevention plan.