Although heartworms were once thought of as an infection that only
affected dogs, pet owners and vets are realizing more and more that heartworms
are an issue for cats too. Tambi Renee, a cat-owner herself and a proponent of
animal health and wellness, offers the following information about heartworm in
cats so that cat lovers can watch out for the disease in their pets.
Why Catching Heartworm Early Is Important
Heartworm is a parasitic infection that can quickly become serious and
lead to long-term and life threatening health consequences. The parasites
invade the blood vessels of the heart and lungs and can cause significant
respiratory distress in cats, as well as an immune response that is also
potentially fatal. If not caught early, heartworm can quickly reach a point
where it is no longer treatable.
Heartworm Symptoms to Watch Out For
In cats, heartworm can be fairly difficult to detect, which is one of
the reasons why it was thought to only rarely affect felines for so long.
However, with a close eye, it is possible to determine if your cat has
heartworms. Serious symptoms to look out for include vomiting, coughing,
difficulty breathing, disinterest in food, and depression and lethargy.
Unfortunately, some cats may not exhibit symptoms at all, which is another
reason why it is important to take your cat to the vet for regular wellness
exams.
Treating Heartworm In Cats
If you discover that your cat has heartworm, it’s important to use a
treatment option that is specifically designed for cats, as the medications
made for dogs will not work and can even be harmful for cats. Take your cat to
the vet immediately if you think that she might have contracted heartworm. Your
vet can prescribe medication, such as a corticosteroid, or a heartworm-specific
option to treat the disease.
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