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Heartworms - a killer of cats with no cure!

This is a photo of heartworms (the white stringy stuff in the left center under the gloved finger) in the heart of a North Dallas cat courtesy of our friends at Pfizer.

Heartworms cannot be treated in cats - we can only try to prevent them. These are the same parasites that make dogs sick, and they come from the same source - mosquitoes. Symptoms of heartworm problems are: coughing, breathing difficulties, chronic vomiting, weight loss, and in some cases sudden death. These symptoms often occur 4-6 months after the peak mosquito season.  Sadly, it is suspected that most sudden deaths in cats can be attributed to heartworms. It only takes ONE heartworm to kill a kitty quite quickly, while it usually takes a much larger infestation to kill a dog.

There is now a test to check for heartworms in cats like there is for dogs.

Prevention of infestation is our best bet. Control mosquitoes around your house.  Keep your kitty indoors - this will lessen the chances of being bitten by a mosquito. Treat your cat monthly with heartworm preventatives such as Revolution™ or Heartgard™.  The Heartgard will also prevent hookworms, Revolution prevents heartworms, other internal parasites, mites and fleas. Heartgard is a chewable pill (just like the doggie version), Revolution is one of those "top spot" on the back of the neck applications.  If you are already dosing your kitty once a month for fleas, you may want to try one of these combination medications.

Revolution is a product that has been approved by the FDA - it is a DRUG that works from the inside of the cat out.  It is not a pesticide that only works on the spots that it is applied to on the outside of the cat.   In other words, it is as effective at controlling fleas on his front toes as it is on his neck or on his tail.

As usual, if you have any questions or problems at all, please call us.  We want your pets to be healthy and happy!

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