Regardless of where they live, dogs and cats are vulnerable to heartworm. This disease is caused through the bite of a mosquito carrying the microscopic heartworm larvae. When a mosquito bites an already infected pet, it ultimately infects every other pet it encounters.
Heartworms inhabit a dog's heart and the large blood vessels around the heart and lungs, damaging tissues and potentially causing heart and liver failure, as well as lung and kidney disease. In cats, heartworms may be found in the heart, lungs, and certain arteries.
Fortunately, heartworm is quite preventable through a variety of oral and topical medications, as well as injections. We'll determine the best preventative treatment strategy when we examine your pet. Additionally, many of these medications are also effective for a variety of other parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.
Symptoms of heartworm may include coughing, breathing difficulties, lethargy, and weight loss. Should you suspect that your pet has been infected with heartworm; a simple blood test can determine if this is the case. Additional diagnostic tests such as x-rays and ultrasound may be useful in assessing the extent of an existing problem.
If already infected, treatment options will vary from pet to pet. We'll assess your pet's condition, discuss our recommendations with you, and decide together on the ideal treatment program.
Ideally, heartworms will be prevented throughout your pet's life!