What is heartworm disease in cats?

Heartworm disease in cats is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by the mosquito Dirofilaria immitis. This is the same parasite that causes heartworm disease in dogs; but new research shows a potential for more severe reactions and even sudden death in cats. Studies indicate 6-20% of cats in Florida are infected with heartworms.

How do cats get heartworm disease?

Cats get heartworm disease the same way dogs get it. Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes, which live all year long here in Florida. Mosquitoes transmit the disease by biting an infected animal, then passing the infection on to other animals they bite.

Remember that mosquitoes can easily come inside.  In fact, approximately 1/3 of all cats with heartworm disease are indoors only!

What are the signs of heartworm disease in cats?

Coughing, breathing difficulty, vomiting. Sluggishness and weight loss are common signs of infection. Other more acute signs are collapse, convulsions and sudden death. Cats may even exhibit signs similar to asthma (making the diagnosis even more difficult).  Be sure to have your cat examined by a veterinarian if you suspect heartworm disease in your cat.

Heartworms are difficult to diagnose in cats, mainly because cats are usually infected by only 1 or 2 worms.  Tests include bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound, or echocardiogram.  You can start preventative without testing first.

How can heartworm diseases be treated?

Currently there is no cure for heartworm disease in cats. The treatment for heartworm disease in dogs can cause significant complications, even death in cats.  There are medications, however, that we can prescribe your cat to help relieve some of the symptoms but there is still the potential for death.

Prevention is your best option. We have 4 different preventatives for heartworms.  It is safe, easy, and 100% effective.  All are dosed once a month.

Advantage Multi® – a topical liquid applied to the skin that also kills adult fleas

Heartgard® – a chewy treat

Interceptor® – a pill

Revolution® – a topical liquid applied to the skin that also kills adult fleas

These are prescription drugs.  We need to examine your cat to make sure he/she is healthy prior to starting these preventatives.  A heartworm test does not have to be run.