Heartworm FAQs from a Veterinarian Near You in Methuen, MA

Heartworm disease sounds like something rare but it’s actually more common than many pet owners think. It spreads silently, through a mosquito bite, and builds up over time in your pet’s heart and lungs. At Methuen Veterinary Hospital, your veterinarian in Methuen, MA, we get a lot of questions about how it works, how to prevent it, and what happens if your pet gets it. Here’s a breakdown of the most common heartworm questions we hear:

What Is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease is caused by a parasite called Dirofilaria immitis. It’s spread when a mosquito bites an infected animal and then bites your pet. The tiny larvae enter the bloodstream and eventually grow into long worms that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.

Left untreated, the disease can lead to:

•             Coughing,

•             Fatigue,

•             Weight loss,

•             And eventually heart failure.

Can Cats Get Heartworm?

Yes, but it’s different. Cats don’t usually have as many worms as dogs, but even a small number can cause serious issues. Cats are also harder to diagnose and don’t respond well to the treatments used for dogs. That’s why prevention is the best, and really the only, safe option.

What Are the Symptoms?

In dogs, you might notice:

•             A dry cough,

•             Low energy,

•             Difficulty breathing,

•             Or a swollen belly from fluid buildup.

In cats, signs might include:

•             Coughing,

•             Vomiting,

•             Sudden collapse (in rare cases).

Some pets show no symptoms until the disease is advanced, which is why routine testing is so important.

How Often Should My Pet Be Tested?

For dogs, yearly testing is recommended, even if they’re on preventatives. Testing checks for any infection that might’ve happened before the medication was started or if a dose was missed. For cats, your vet might suggest testing if symptoms show up, though prevention is still the main focus.

What’s the Treatment Like?

Heartworm treatment in dogs involves a series of injections that kill the adult worms. It’s a slow, controlled process to reduce the risk of complications. During treatment, your dog needs to stay calm: Too much activity can cause a dead worm to block blood flow.

There’s no approved treatment for heartworm in cats, so again, prevention is the safest route.

How Do I Prevent It?

Prevention is simple and effective. Options include:

•             Monthly chewable tablets,

•             Topical treatments,

•             And in some cases, a six- or twelve-month injection from your vet.

These medications also help protect against other parasites like intestinal worms or fleas.

Get Heartworm Treatment from a Veterinarian Near You

At Methuen Veterinary Hospital, your veterinarian in Methuen, MA, we know heartworm can feel overwhelming. With regular care and a good prevention plan, you can keep your pet protected and healthy through every season. Call us at (978) 685-8031 for heartworm treatment from a veterinarian near you.