Heartworm Disease in Dogs vs. Cats

A parasitic worm causes heartworm disease. It is transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Dogs and cats can both become infected. However, the disease affects them differently.

What Is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease is a parasitic infection that affects animals in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. A worm called Dirofilaria immitis causes the disease. It gets transmitted when a mosquito carrying the heartworm larvae bites an animal. 
 

The larvae travel into the animal’s bloodstream and further to the heart and lungs, where they mature into adult worms. 

Symptoms of Heartworm Disease in Dogs

Heartworm disease can cause severe heart failure, lung disease, and damage to other organs. The worms can grow up to a foot long and live for several years. These characteristics allow them to cause blockages in the hearts and lungs, finally leading to death if untreated.
 

The symptoms of heartworm disease in dogs include the following:
 

• Coughing
   

• Exercise intolerance
   

• Lethargy
   

• Reduced appetite
   

• Collapse
   

• Weight loss
   

• Swollen abdomen
   

• Difficulty breathing

Symptoms of Heartworm Disease in Cats

Heartworm disease is often harder to diagnose in cats. The symptoms can be vague or mimic those of other respiratory illnesses. Cats have a milder reaction to the condition. However, a small number of heartworms can cause severe harm to their heart and lungs. The symptoms can include the following:
 

• Coughing
   

• Collapse
   

• Vomiting
   

• Lethargy
   

• Difficulty breathing
   

• Weight loss
   

• Labored or rapid breathing

Diagnosis of Heartworm Disease in Dogs and Cats

Diagnosing heartworm disease in dogs and cats involves a combination of physical examination, blood tests, and imaging. A blood test is necessary to detect the presence of heartworm antigens in dogs. These are proteins produced by adult female worms. 
 

In cats, a blood test may also help. However, it is less reliable, as cats may not have enough antigens for detection. Instead, veterinarians may use imaging tests, such as ultrasounds or X-rays, to look for signs of heartworm disease in the lungs and heart.

Treatment of Heartworm Disease

Treatment for heartworm disease is available for both dogs and cats. However, it can be risky and costly. In dogs, treatments involve a series of injections to kill adult worms. Unfortunately, it can be dangerous as it can cause complications like allergic reactions. 
 

Dogs should be calm and inactive during treatment, as exercise can cause dead worms to break loose and cause lung blockages. Treatment for cats is more challenging. There are no drugs approved for heartworm treatment in cats. Instead, treatment may involve managing the cat’s symptoms and providing supportive care.

Preventing Heartworm Disease

Prevention is the best approach to heartworm disease in dogs and cats. There are different heartworm preventatives available for dogs and cats. These include monthly tablets, injections, and topical treatments. These preventatives kill the heartworm larvae before they can mature into adult worms. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best approach for your pet. 
 

For more about heartworm disease, visit Liberty Animal Clinic at our office in Hinesville, Georgia. Call (912) 368-4080 to book an appointment today.