Heartworm disease affects cats very differently than dogs. Cats are atypical hosts for heartworms, and most worms in cats do not survive to maturity. However, this does not mean cats are safe — even immature worms can cause a serious condition known as Heartworm Associated Respiratory Disease (HARD).
Symptoms In Cats
Because diagnosis is challenging and symptoms can be subtle, cat owners should watch for:
- Coughing or asthma-like attacks
- Periodic vomiting
- Lack of appetite or weight loss
- Difficulty walking
- Fainting or seizures
- Abdominal fluid buildup
In severe cases, sudden collapse or death can occur without any prior warning signs.
Treatment
Unlike dogs, there are currently no FDA-approved drugs for treating heartworm infection in cats. Management focuses on supportive veterinary care — which is why prevention is the only reliable strategy for protecting cats from heartworm disease.
Prevention Special
We offer a special promotion for cat heartworm prevention: purchase 9 months of Revolution Plus and receive a complimentary heartworm test plus 3 additional monthly doses.
Contact Traveling Tails Veterinary Clinic to learn more and schedule your cat's prevention appointment today.