Heartworm disease in cats is very different from heartworm disease in dogs. Cats are atypical hosts for heartworms, and most worms in cats do not survive to the adult stage which is why heartworm disease often goes undiagnosed in cats. However, even immature worms cause cats to develop a condition known as heartworm-associated respiratory disease.
Symptoms of heartworm disease in cats may include coughing, asthma-like attacks, periodic vomiting, lack of appetite, or weight loss. Occasionally an affected cat may have difficulty walking, experience fainting or seizures, or suffer from fluid accumulation in the abdomen. Unfortunately, the first sign in some cases is a sudden collapse of the cat or sudden death.
Currently, there is no approved drug therapy for heartworm infection in cats. However, cats with heartworm disease can often be helped with good veterinary care. Prevention is the only means of protecting cats from the effects of heartworm disease.
This month we’re offering two specials in honor of Heartworm Prevention Month. This month when you buy 9 months of Revolution Plus for your cat, you’ll receive a free heartworm test and an additional 3 monthly doses of Revolution Plus. For appointments please call us today at (210) 495-8245.
