Is My Indoor Cat at Risk?
YES! Although outdoor cats are at a greater risk of contracting heartworms, indoor cats are susceptible too. This is because heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, which we can bring inside the house on our clothes or even just by opening the doors or windows.
Signs of Heartworm Disease in Cats
There signs of heartworm disease in cats are very nonspecific. In fact, the symptoms often mimic those of other diseases. The signs associated with the first stages of heartworm disease (if any are shown at all) can be similar to those of asthma or allergic bronchitis. Severe respiratory distress, heart disease, and sudden death can also result from heartworm infection.
Clinical Signs Associated with Feline Heartworm Disease
Acute Chronic
collapse coughing
dyspnea (labored breathing) vomiting
convulsions dyspnea
diarrhea/vomiting lethargy
blindness anorexia
tachycardia (very rapid heartbeat) weight loss
syncope (fainting) fluid in the chest
sudden death
How is Feline Heartworm Disease Diagnosed?
It is much more difficult to diagnose heartworm infection in cats than it is in dogs. This is why prevention is so important for all your kitties!! The disease can be identified using a combination of clinical presentation, blood tests, x-rays, and echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart).
How is Feline Heartworm Disease Treated?
There are no products currently on the market that are approved for treatment of feline heartworm disease. Infected cats are usually treated symptomatically, which means they are given medications that help to lessen specific symptoms that are caused by the heartworms.
What Heartworm Prevention is Available for my Cat?
Weddington Animal Hospital recommends that all cats be on Revolution, which is a topical medication that prevents heartworms and fleas, and also controls roundworms & hookworms (intestinal parasites) and ear mites. Revolution is applied once a month to the skin on the back of the neck, and should be used year-round in this area -
even on indoor kitties!
