(Chelsea Update would like to thank Lane Animal Hospital for the information in this story.)
Heartworm disease is a potentially deadly infection caused by microscopic worms (dirofilaria immitis) that live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels.
Heartworm disease is spread by mosquitos that become infected with microfilariae while taking a blood meal from an infected animal, including dogs, cats, ferrets, foxes, and coyotes. The microfilariae mature into the infective larval stage within the mosquito.
When the mosquito bites another dog, cat, or susceptible animal, it then passes the larvae into the animal’s blood stream through the bite wound, resulting in heartworm infection.
It takes a little over 6 months for the infective larvae to mature into adult worms.
Are indoor pets at risk?
Yes. We’ve all been bitten by a pesky mosquito indoors and our indoor pets are also at risk.
What are the early symptoms of heartworm in dogs?
The first and earliest symptom of heartworm in dogs is a cough that is worsened by exercise.
How common is heartworm disease in cats?
Although cats are relatively resistant to heartworm infection when compared to dogs, the disease can still occur. 1 of every 3 cases of heartworm disease in cats has been found in those that are indoor only.
There is currently no treatment for heartworm disease in cats, which is why prevention is so important.
How does the veterinarian check my pet for heartworms?
Your veterinarian can detect the presence of heartworm through a blood test. These antigens can be detected approximately 6 months after your pet has been bitten by an infected mosquito.
Heartworm disease is preventable.
There are a variety of options for prevention of heartworm disease in dogs, including a monthly chewable tablet (we recommend Simparica Trio or Sentinel Spectrum) or an injectable (ProHeart) administered by your veterinarian that provides protection for 6 to 12 months.
For cats, we recommend a monthly topical solution called Revolution Plus. Our veterinarians recommend prevention year-round, as mosquitos are no longer staying dormant during the winter season in Michigan.
