At Marin City Animal Hospital in Marin City, CA, we know how important your pet’s health is to your family. Heartworm disease is a serious, yet preventable, condition that affects dogs and cats throughout the United States. Understanding how it spreads, how to prevent it, and how to treat it can help protect your pet’s long-term well-being.
What Is Heartworm Disease?
Heartworm disease is caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of infected animals. Mosquitoes spread the disease by carrying microscopic larvae from one host to another. Over time, these worms can cause severe lung disease, heart failure, and organ damage. Dogs are the natural host, but cats can also become infected, although their symptoms are often different.
How Do Pets Get Heartworms?
When a mosquito carrying heartworm larvae bites a pet, the larvae enter the bloodstream. They mature over several months, eventually reaching the heart and lungs. This process can take up to six months before symptoms appear. Since heartworm infection often goes unnoticed at first, regular testing and year-round prevention are essential.
What Are the Signs of Heartworm Disease?
Common signs in dogs include coughing, fatigue, weight loss, and difficulty breathing. Cats may show vomiting, loss of appetite, or sudden collapse. However, some pets show no signs until the disease is advanced, which makes early detection through testing even more important.
Can Heartworm Disease Be Prevented?
Yes, prevention is both easy and affordable. Monthly oral or topical medications and certain injectable products protect pets by killing larvae before they mature. Consistent use of prevention throughout the year is the best way to keep your pet safe.
How Is Heartworm Disease Treated?
If your pet tests positive, treatment depends on the severity of the infection. Dogs may need a series of medications and strict rest, while treatment options for cats focus on managing symptoms and preventing further complications.
Schedule an Appointment Today
For heartworm treatment near you, call Marin City Animal Hospital in Marin City, CA, at (415) 855-0504. Our veterinary team provides testing, prevention, and personalized solutions to keep your pet healthy. You can also browse our website before your visit to learn more about our services and approach.