Heartworm Prevention & Simple Steps to Protect Your Pet

Spring is here, which means warmer weather, sunnier skies… and more mosquitoes.

Unfortunately, mosquitoes carry a dangerous threat that could harm your pet: heartworm. April is National Heartworm Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to refocus on protection and prevention. This guide focuses on what you can do to keep them safe, courtesy of the team at Oz Animal Hospital.

Understanding the Threat

Heartworm disease isn’t spread directly from pet to pet. It requires a mosquito intermediary.

  1. A mosquito bites an infected animal (like a dog, cat, coyote, or fox) and ingests microscopic heartworm larvae.
  2. These larvae mature inside the mosquito over 10-14 days.
  3. The infected mosquito then bites your pet, transmitting the larvae.
  4. Over several months, these larvae travel to your pet’s heart and lungs, growing into adult worms that cause severe damage.

Prevention is Everything!

Waiting for symptoms is not a reliable strategy, as early stages often show no signs. Prevention is paramount.

  • The #1 Defense: Year-Round Preventative Medication
    • This is the most crucial step. Preventatives work by killing heartworm larvae before they mature into dangerous adults.
    • Options Galore: Preventatives come in various forms (monthly chewables, topical liquids, even long-lasting injectables).
    • Talk to Us: We’ll help you choose the right preventative based on your pet’s species (dog or cat), lifestyle, and health history. Consistency is key – a missed dose leaves your pet vulnerable.
  • Annual Heartworm Testing: Why It’s Still Necessary
    • Even pets on preventatives need an annual test (usually a simple blood test).
    • Why? No preventative is 100% effective, doses can be missed or administered incorrectly, and early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes if an infection does occur.
  • Mosquito Control (A Helpful Extra):
    • While not foolproof, minimizing mosquito exposure helps. Reducing standing water around your home (where mosquitoes breed) is a simple way to start.

Spotting Potential Signs (But Don’t Wait for These!)

Symptoms often appear when the disease is already advanced, and they include:

  • Mild, persistent coughing
  • Reluctance to exercise or fatigue after activity
  • Decreased appetite and weight loss
  • Difficulty breathing

Cats, in particular, may show subtle signs like vomiting, lethargy, or sudden respiratory distress. If you notice these signs, see your veterinarian immediately!

The Importance of Early Action

Heartworm disease is progressive and life-threatening if untreated. Treatment for established heartworm infection is complex, expensive, and carries risks. Prevention is vastly safer and more cost-effective, too.

Interested in getting some preventative heartworm medication? Give us a call!

At Oz Animal Hospital, we’re dedicated to providing top-tier veterinary care that goes beyond traditional standards. Our team takes the time to understand your pet’s lifestyle, habits, and medical history to provide tailored recommendations for vaccines, preventative care, and treatment options. Choose Oz Animal Hospital for exceptional veterinary care that prioritizes your pet’s well-being and peace of mind! To schedule your appointment, contact us today.