Heartworm Disease in Dogs and Cats
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms living in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of infected pets. It’s spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, which means any pet, indoor or outdoor, can be at risk.
Signs of Heartworm Disease
- Mild, persistent cough
- Fatigue after moderate activity
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Difficulty breathing
- In advanced cases, a swollen belly from fluid buildup
Many pets show no symptoms in the early stages, which is why routine testing is so important.
Prevention Is Key
Heartworm disease is far easier and less costly to prevent than to treat. Monthly prevention, combined with annual testing, is the most effective way to protect your pet. Because mosquitoes are active for much of the year in our area, our team generally recommends year-round prevention.
We can test for heartworm right here using our in-house laboratory, so results are often available quickly. Call us at (254) 876-2552 to schedule a heartworm test or to start your pet on a prevention plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heartworm Disease
How is heartworm disease spread?
Heartworm is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, so any pet can be at risk, even those that spend most of their time indoors.
What are the signs of heartworm disease?
Signs can include a mild cough, fatigue after activity, decreased appetite, weight loss, and difficulty breathing, though many pets show no symptoms early on.
Can heartworm disease be cured?
Treatment is possible but can be costly and carries risks, which is why prevention is strongly recommended.
How often should my pet be tested for heartworm?
Annual testing is generally recommended, even for pets on year-round prevention.
Can cats get heartworm disease too?
Yes, cats can be infected with heartworms, and the disease can be more difficult to detect and treat in cats than in dogs.