Heartworm Awareness Month | Protect Your Pets from Deadly Parasites
April marks Heartworm Awareness Month, an important time to educate pet owners about the dangers of heartworm disease. Spread by infected mosquitoes, heartworm disease affects dogs, cats, and even ferrets. Left untreated, it can lead to severe lung disease, heart failure, and death.
How Heartworm Disease Spreads
Heartworm disease is caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis. Mosquitoes carry the larvae, transmitting them to pets through a bite. Once inside the pet’s bloodstream, the larvae mature and settle in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels.
Symptoms of Heartworm Disease
- Coughing or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue after mild activity
- Weight loss or loss of appetite
- Swollen abdomen due to fluid accumulation
Symptoms may not appear until the disease has progressed, which is why annual testing is critical.
Prevention Is Key
The best way to protect your pet is through monthly heartworm prevention. Options include oral chews, topical treatments, and injections. Regular testing, even for pets on preventative medication, ensures early detection and treatment if necessary.
Why Testing Matters
Heartworm disease can only be detected through blood tests. Annual screenings help catch infections early, reducing the risk of complications. For cats, heartworm disease is harder to diagnose, so prevention is even more critical.
Heartworm disease is a serious but preventable condition. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure your pets remain safe and healthy throughout mosquito season.
Protect your pets from heartworm disease—schedule a test or preventative care appointment with Companion Animal Clinic at (515) 233-6689 or visit us at 143 Dunn Street, Gilbert, IA 50105 today!
