Heartworm is a little blood parasite that is spread by mosquitoes. The adult worms reside in the heart and occasionally migrate to the vessels.
This disease has been well-documented in dogs but only recently has the attention been shifted to our feline friends. Due to the relatively lower worm count in cats compared to dogs, diagnostic tests may give false negative results. There have been reports of sudden deaths in cats linked to potential Heartworm burden: A worm or two had been found on necropsies.
Currently, other than prevention with Revolution/Advocate spot-on, there is no medical treatment available. Other than sudden deaths, affected cats could show signs of respiratory disease.
VetMobile recommends monthly prevention for all cats and dogs! Want to know more about Hearworm? Read here.
Click here for a comprehensive infographic made by American Heartworm Society.
