Heartworm Disease in Cats: Facts, Myths, and Medical Insights
Heartworm disease is often thought of as a canine problem, but cats are far from immune. In fact, heartworm disease in cats is frequently misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and potentially fatal. Unlike dogs, cats are atypical hosts, which changes how the disease develops, how it is diagnosed, and how it should be managed. Veterinary education platforms and pet health resources such as PetCareClub continue to highlight the growing importance of heartworm awareness in cats, especially as mosquito exposure increases worldwide. Understanding Heartworm Disease in Cats Heartworm disease is caused by Dirofilaria immitis, a parasitic worm transmitted by mosquitoes. Cats become infected when an infected mosquito bites them and deposits heartworm larvae into the bloodstream. A Critical Difference: Cats Are Imperfect Hosts Most larvae do not survive to adulthood Even 1-3 worms can cause severe or fatal disease Immature worms can still cause significant lung inflammation This unique immune response...