Cat Parasites

How do cats get heartworm disease?

Cats contract heartworm disease in the same way dogs do - through the bite of a mosquito that has previously fed on an infected animal. The mosquito transmits immature heartworm larvae into the cat’s bloodstream. However, feline heartworm disease differs significantly from canine cases. Cats’ immune systems typically mount a strong response against the larvae, preventing them from maturing into adult worms. As a result, cats are considered dead-end hosts and rarely serve as a source of infection for other animals. Despite the absence of adult worms, the inflammatory reaction triggered by the dying larvae can still cause serious illness and clinical signs in cats.

What are the symptoms of heartworm disease in cats?

Feline heartworm disease presents with a wide range of clinical signs, and in some cases, cats may show no symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they can be subtle or more pronounced, including coughing, labored breathing, vomiting, or - tragically - sudden death. In fact, sudden, unexplained death in cats can sometimes be attributed to heartworm disease. A related condition known as Heartworm Associated Respiratory Disease (HARD) is also common in cats. HARD results from an inflammatory, asthma-like response in the lungs triggered by the death of immature heartworms, leading to respiratory distress.

Is heartworm disease fatal in cats?

Heartworm disease in cats can be serious - even life-threatening. Some cats are able to fight off the infection without showing any signs, while others might have mild symptoms. Unfortunately, in some cases, the disease can lead to more severe issues or even sudden death.

How can heartworm disease be prevented in cats?

Prevention is the cornerstone of managing heartworm disease in cats. Due to the challenges in diagnosing and treating feline heartworm infections, proactive protection is essential. Revolution Plus is a monthly topical preventive that offers broad-spectrum coverage - including heartworm prevention, internal parasite control, and flea and tick protection. Its efficacy and ease of use make it an excellent choice for safeguarding cats against this potentially fatal disease.

How does heartworm disease in cats differ from dogs?

Feline heartworm disease differs significantly from its canine counterpart. Unlike dogs, cats often do not harbor adult heartworms, and their clinical presentation can range from subtle signs to acute respiratory distress or sudden death. In contrast, dogs typically develop a more chronic form of the disease, characterized by persistent coughing and gradual progression. The feline form tends to be more abrupt and unpredictable, underscoring the importance of early prevention.