Heartworm is a mosquito borne parasite. The parasite Dirofilaria immitis is transmitted through mosquito bites to dogs and, occasionally, cats. Because the disease is borne by mosquitoes, it is very common in areas where mosquitoes are found. This is especially true in the southern states, such as Florida and the gulf area, as well as the Midwest and Mississippi valley areas. Typically it affects dogs; however in rare cases cats can also be affected.
On average three to 10% of outdoor cats will be affected by heartworm. In most cases heartworm is asymptomatic in cats (without symptoms); however, it can be serious and even deadly.
Is there a way to keep my cat from getting Heartworm Disease?
Monthly heartworm preventatives commonly used in dogs can be used in cats as well. These are oral medications and are given once a month as directed. Our hospital recommends Interceptor™.
The monthly pill prevents the microfilaria from becoming adults. Because they work only on that stage of the lifecycle, it is important that they be given in a timely fashion. If you miss pills, your cat could become infected with heartworm. For this reason, even cats maintained on the pills year-round should be tested every other year.
For further information about the life stages of heartworm, you might want to read This passage in our Dog heartworm handout.
If you are concerned that your cat may be susceptible to heartworm disease, please contact your veterinarian for further discussion and recommendations. We will be happy to answer all of your questions. Please call 685-4707..