Cat Heart Worm, how to help

Cat heartworm is a serious and potentially fatal disease caused by a parasitic worm that lives in the heart and lungs of cats. It is spread from one cat to another through the bites of infected mosquitoes.

The adult heartworm lives in the heart, lungs and adjacent blood vessels of the cat, where it feeds on the blood and tissue of the animal. It can grow up to a foot in length, and the number of worms can range from a single individual to hundreds. Although cats can be infected for months or years before showing any signs of disease, the presence of adult worms in the heart can result in significant damage to the heart, lungs, and other internal organs.

The primary symptom of heartworm infection in cats is coughing, which can range from mild to severe. Other symptoms include difficulty breathing, lethargy, weight loss, anorexia, and vomiting. In some cases, cats may also show signs of fluid accumulation in their abdomen or chest, as well as an enlarged heart, which can be detected through X-rays.

Diagnosis of heartworm in cats is done through a combination of tests, including a physical exam, bloodwork, and chest X-rays. Treatment is aimed at killing the adult worms and preventing further infection.

Medications are given orally, injected into the muscle, or administered as an injection directly into the heart. Some of the commonly used medications include diethylcarbamazine, ivermectin, and milbemycin. In addition, cats may need to be treated for any secondary infections caused by the worms.

The best way to prevent heartworm infection in cats is by having them on a year-round heartworm preventive medication and keeping them indoors. Additionally, it is important to regularly check your cat for signs of infection and to reduce their exposure to mosquitoes.

Heartworm infection in cats is serious and potentially fatal, but with prompt diagnosis and treatment, cats can live happy and healthy lives. It is important to be aware of the signs of heartworm in cats and to have your pet tested and treated quickly to prevent complications.

Although heartworm can be life-threatening, your cat can recover if the disease is caught and treated early. With diligent monitoring and preventative care, including regular checkups and heartworm prevention medications, you can help ensure that your cat enjoys a long and healthy life.