April is Heartworm Awareness Month, and we are here to remind you that it’s important to stay on top of your pet’s heartworm prevention. Heartworm disease is a serious, potentially deadly condition that can affect cats and dogs, but the good news is that you can take steps to keep your pet healthy.
What is heartworm disease?
Heartworm is a parasitic worm that can reach a foot in length. These worms live in the heart, lungs, and arteries of infected animals and can cause serious damage over time. Heartworm disease is spread by mosquitoes, so any pet can be at risk for infection. This means that you need to take the proper precautions.
Symptoms of Heartworm Disease
In the early stages of heartworm disease, many dogs may not show symptoms at all. As the disease progresses, dogs may experience coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue after activity, and weight loss. If your pet is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian right away for an evaluation. Dogs with heartworm can also develop blockages in blood flow to the heart, which can be fatal if not treated immediately.
As for cats, they may exhibit coughing, asthma-like attacks, periodic vomiting, lack of appetite, or weight loss. In severe cases, they could collapse or even experience sudden death.
Preventing Heartworm Disease
The best way to prevent heartworm disease is to give your pet a monthly heartworm preventive medication. This medication will keep your pet safe from infection and ensure that they stay healthy for years to come. Your veterinarian can help you find the best type of prevention for your pet and give you tips on how to keep them safe from heartworm.
If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s heartworm prevention, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian. They can answer all of your questions and put together a plan that will keep your pet safe from the dangers of heartworm disease.
