Pet Health Care Blog

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...

Heartworm disease is likely the most serious parasitic threat to our pets; not just dogs, but cats as well. Although most people believe cats cannot develop heartworm, they can, but the disease progresses differently in them. Be aware of heartworm facts, notice the signs of infection, and use prevention measures that will save your pet's life. The FDA provides a helpful overview in its “ Keep Worms Out of Your Pet’s Heart! ” brochure. PetCareClub , a pet supply web page, also offers info and products for the prevention of heartworms. Let's dig deeper. What Is Heartworm Disease? Heartworm disease is caused by infection with a parasite called Dirofilaria immitis. If an infected mosquito bites your pet, it leaves immature heartworm larvae (microfilariae) in the pet's blood. The larvae develop over several months, travel through blood vessels, and settle in the heart, lungs, and related vessels - destroying them, causing inflammation, congestion, and even heart failure in seve...