As a pet owner, you already know the importance of proper nutrition, exercise, and regular checkups with your veterinarian. One of the reasons scheduling vet appointments is important is to identify heartworms before they mature. A serious condition that can lead to death, heartworm disease takes months to develop, giving pet care providers time to catch and prevent symptoms. If you’ve never heard of this issue and want to learn more, here are some common questions people have about heartworms.

4 FAQ About Pet Heartworm Disease

What is heartworm disease?

A pet contracts heartworm disease when an infected mosquito bites them. Once introduced, it takes around six to seven months for larvae to fully mature into adult worms. If allowed to reach maturity, heartworms can live inside a dog for five to seven years, and in cats for two to three years.

Why is it dangerous?

Heartworm disease can cause many health problems in both dogs and cats once worms reach adulthood. Adult worms make their way into the vessels of an animal’s heart, restricting blood flow to the rest of the body. This can result in respiratory diseases, kidney or liver failure, and even death.

What are the symptoms of heartworm disease?

In dogs, a dry cough is often the first sign of heartworms. This may also come with inactivity, weight loss, or a bulging chest. Felines, on the other hand, may experience asthma-like attacks, vomiting, difficulty walking, or seizures. If you notice these symptoms or suspect your pet has heartworms, visit a veterinarian immediately to check for the parasite.

Is this preventable?

Since heartworms take months to become dangerous, the disease can be prevented through veterinarian-prescribed medications. Administered monthly orally or topically, the drug kills off existing larvae inside your pet, preventing symptoms from arising. Once the worms reach adulthood, treatment may require costly surgery, so avoid trouble by taking your animal to the vet every six months for heartworm medication. 

To keep your furry friend safe from heartworms, visit the veterinarians at Hayward Animal Hospital in Sawyer County, WI. For over 30 years, they’ve offered vital pet services including vaccinations, surgery, orthopedics, and dental care. They also provide pet boarding options to keep your animals comfortable and healthy while you’re away on a trip. Learn more about what they do online, or call (715) 634-8971 to book an appointment.