Heartworm disease is a serious condition that affects dogs and, less commonly, cats. At Animal Kingdom Veterinary Center in Boca Raton, FL, we regularly treat and prevent this potentially life-threatening illness. Caused by parasitic worms spread through mosquito bites, heartworm can silently damage your pet’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Understanding the basics can help you protect your pet and take action early when necessary.
What Is Heartworm Disease?
Heartworm disease occurs when infected mosquitoes transmit microscopic larvae into a pet’s bloodstream. These larvae grow into adult worms that settle in the heart and lungs. Over time, they can cause serious damage to internal organs. If not diagnosed and treated early, heartworm can become fatal.
How Can I Tell If My Pet Has Heartworm?
Many pets do not show symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, you may notice coughing, fatigue, weight loss, or trouble breathing. In cats, symptoms can be more subtle or sudden. Because signs are not always obvious, regular testing is important for early detection.
How Is Heartworm Diagnosed?
Our clinic uses a blood test to check for heartworm proteins, typically during a routine wellness exam. If the test is positive, we may run additional imaging or bloodwork to assess the severity of infection. Early diagnosis allows us to plan an appropriate treatment strategy for your pet.
What Does Heartworm Treatment Involve?
Heartworm treatment usually includes a series of injections to kill the adult worms. Your pet must be kept calm during recovery, as increased activity can lead to complications. Some cases may require additional medications to treat inflammation or prevent further problems. Our veterinarian will guide you through each step of the heartworm treatment plan.
Can Heartworm Be Prevented?
Heartworm prevention is available in the form of monthly oral or topical medications, and sometimes an annual injection. These medications stop new infections from developing, even if your pet is bitten by an infected mosquito. Consistent use of prevention is the best way to protect your pet year-round.
How Often Should My Pet Be Tested?
We recommend annual heartworm testing for all dogs, even those on prevention. Cats should also be tested, especially if they show signs of respiratory problems. Regular testing ensures that if your pet does become infected, treatment can begin before the disease advances.
Talk to a Veterinarian Near You
At Animal Kingdom Veterinary Center in Boca Raton, FL, our veterinarian is committed to helping your pet stay protected against heartworm. If you have questions or need to schedule testing, reach out to a veterinarian near you today. Call Animal Kingdom Veterinary Center to learn more about prevention, testing, and heartworm treatment.