Heartworm Prevention for Dogs and Cats

What are heartworms?

Heartworms can cause a serious disease and can sometimes be fatal in both dogs AND cats. The good news is its 100% preventable.

These are worm-like parasites that live within the heart and lungs. They are transmitted to our pets by mosquitos. In the south east it is recommended to prevent heartworms year round because the temperature rarely stays cold long enough to remove the mosquito threat.

Is my pet at risk for heartworms?

Pets who go outdoors are at higher risk. However, cases of indoor only cats have been recorded. This is due to the fact that mosquitos do not stay outdoors only.

Better to prevent than treat heartworms.

There is treatment available for dogs. The treatment can have severe side effects depending on the progression of the disease. It is important to know that there is no treatment for cats. The good news is that there are effective preventions for both dogs and cats. There are a variety of types: chewable vs. topical. Many have the added benefit of intestinal parasite prevention and flea control.

Talk with us today about which prevention would best fit your pet’s lifestyle. Your pet may require a heartworm test prior to starting or switching prevention.