Heartworms in Kitties

Today, we’re going to talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention in the world of feline health: heartworms in cats. Heartworms are more often associated with dogs, but cats are not immune. In fact, heartworm disease in cats can be sneaky, and by the time symptoms show up, it might be a bit too late for effective treatment. An Alameda, CA vet goes over some information about feline heartworm infestations below. 

What Exactly Are Heartworms?

Heartworms are long parasites that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of infected animals. The primary way heartworms spread is through mosquito bites. Here’s the cycle:

1. A mosquito bites an infected animal (like a dog) and picks up heartworm larvae.
   
2. The mosquito then bites a cat, passing the larvae into their bloodstream.
   
3. The larvae travel through the blood to the heart and lungs, where they grow into adult worms.
   

While heartworms are most often found in dogs, cats can also become infected if they are bitten by an infected mosquito. It’s important to note that heartworms don’t reproduce or thrive as well in cats as they do in dogs. However, even a few worms can cause serious problems.

The Risk of Heartworm Disease in Cats

You might be wondering: “If cats don’t get as many heartworms as dogs, why should I be worried?” Great question! Even though cats are not the preferred host for heartworms, they are still at risk of developing severe health issues from the few worms they might carry.

Heartworms can cause a variety of health problems, including:

• Heart and lung damage: As the worms grow, they can block blood vessels and cause inflammation. This can lead to heart failure and respiratory distress.
  
• Heartworm-associated respiratory disease (HARD): This condition is similar to asthma and can cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. It’s one of the most common issues in cats infected with heartworms.
  
• Sudden death: In some cases, heartworms can cause severe complications, like a sudden collapse, seizures, or even death. This is especially true if there’s a large burden of worms or if the heartworms obstruct vital blood vessels.

Symptoms of Heartworm Disease in Cats

Because cats aren’t the ideal host for heartworms, the symptoms may be subtler or harder to detect than they are in dogs. Even just a few heartworms can cause serious health issues in your cat. Cats may not have the same visible signs of infection as dogs, but if left untreated, the disease can still be fatal.

Here are the most common symptoms of heartworm disease in cats:

• Coughing  
• Wheezing 
• Difficulty breathing  
• Lethargy
  
• Vomiting 
• Sudden collapse or seizures
  

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with your vet immediately. The earlier heartworm disease is detected, the better the chances of treating it successfully.

Heartworm Prevention for Cats

Luckily, preventing heartworm disease is simple. The key is keeping your cat on a regular heartworm prevention schedule. There are several options available, including:

• Oral medications: These are pills or chewables that your cat takes, typically each month.
  
• Topical treatments: These are applied to your cat’s skin, usually once a month, and are absorbed into the bloodstream.
  
• Injectable medication: There are also long-acting injectable options that provide heartworm protection for a full year.
  

Even if your cat is an indoor kitty, you should continue with heartworm prevention. Mosquitoes can easily find their way indoors. A single mosquito bite can be all it takes to cause your feline friend some very serious—and possibly life-threatening—issues.

Is There a Treatment for Heartworm Disease in Cats?

Unfortunately, there’s no simple cure for heartworm disease in cats, and there’s no approved medication that can kill heartworms in cats the way we can treat dogs. In most cases, treatment is focused on managing symptoms and providing supportive care. This could include:

• Oxygen therapy if your cat is having difficulty breathing.
  
• Anti-inflammatory medications to help reduce inflammation in the lungs.
  
• Pain management if necessary.
  
• Strict rest to reduce strain on the heart and lungs.
  

Your vet will discuss treatment options after diagnosing and evaluating your feline friend. 

Final Thoughts

Heartworm disease in cats is a serious and potentially fatal condition, but it is entirely preventable. By staying up to date with your cat’s monthly heartworm prevention and paying attention to any signs of illness, you can keep your kitty safe and healthy for years to come.

If you have any questions or concerns about heartworms, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re always happy to help you keep your feline friend happy and healthy!

Make An Appointment At Our Alameda, CA Pet Clinic

Do you have questions or concerns about your kitty’s health or care? Contact us, your local Alameda, CA pet hospital, anytime!