Felines develop a slightly different heartworm disease compared to canines. Like dogs, heartworms live primarily in the heart of the cat, where mature females release thousands of tiny larvae called microfilaria. These immature forms depend upon a mosquito to transfer them from one infected cat to a non-infected cat. After passing the disease to the next cat, these microfilaria develop and grow in the cat, eventually finding their way to the heart and arteries of the lungs. However, worm burdens are much smaller in cats; they usually get a few worms that do not generally lead to obstructive disease (as in canines). The problem that arises in cats is more of an immune mediated one. Simply put, the body has an over reaction to fight off the disease, this is what causes the problems.

     - symptoms:   The most frequently seen symptoms in heartworm positive cats are vomiting, anorexia, malazia and trouble breathing. To diagnose heartworms requires blood testing for the signals of adult heartworms; this should be repeated yearly. After a negative test, your feline companion should start prevention and be maintained year round.

     - treatment:   Heartworm treatment is slightly different in cats compared to dogs as well. Because there are fewer worms in the cat we can treat a little more aggressively. A low dose adulticide and Microfilariaecide is given at the same time, slowly killing both the adult and baby heartworms. We repeat that dose in increasing increments for four to six weeks or until the preventative dose has been reached. Once on prevention they stay on forever to prevent reinfestation. If you have any questions related to Feline Heartworm Disease don't hesitate calling or e-mailing us. If you think your companion is showing signs of Feline Heartworm Disease have them tested and when negative start them on heartworm prevention as both good preventative health care and peace of mind.