Understanding Heartworm Disease and How to Prevent It

Heartworm disease is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition that affects dogs—and yes, cats too. At Partners Veterinary Hospital Fruitville, we want every pet parent to understand what heartworm is, how it spreads, and why prevention is so important for all pets, including our feline friends.

What Is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworms are parasites spread by mosquito bites. Once inside your pet, these larvae travel through the bloodstream to the heart and lungs, where they grow into adult worms. In dogs, this can cause coughing, fatigue, difficulty breathing, and even heart failure if left untreated.

Who’s at Risk?

If mosquitoes are present, so is the risk of heartworm. That means every dog (and cat) in Sarasota and beyond can be exposed—even indoor pets aren’t completely safe. Because mosquitoes can get inside, no pet is immune.

What About Cats?

While cats are less likely to get heartworm than dogs, the disease can still be very serious—and often harder to diagnose. Cats typically have fewer worms, but even a small number can cause significant lung damage and respiratory issues, sometimes called Heartworm Associated Respiratory Disease (HARD). Cats can also have sudden severe symptoms, including coughing, asthma-like attacks, vomiting, or in rare cases, sudden collapse.

Because there is no approved safe treatment for heartworm infection in cats, prevention is the absolute best way to protect your kitty.

Why Prevention Is Essential for All Pets

Mosquitoes don’t discriminate between dogs and cats, and they can even get inside your home. That means even indoor pets are at risk. Prevention is simple and safe:

• Monthly heartworm preventatives protect dogs and cats from infection.
  
• Annual testing for dogs helps us catch any infections early.
  
• For cats, prevention is especially critical since treatment options are limited.
  

Keep Your Pets Safe Year-Round

Heartworm treatment can be costly and stressful for your pet, so prevention is the smartest choice. A simple monthly pill or topical medication can give you peace of mind and keep your pet protected through mosquito season—and beyond.

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help

At Partners Veterinary Hospital Fruitville, we’re committed to helping you keep your pets healthy and safe. If you have questions about heartworm or want to set up prevention for your dog or cat, just give us a call. Together, we’ll keep your furry family members protected all year long.