Cats get heartworms too!!! Even cats living totally indoors have been diagnosed with heartworms.
How do cats get heartworm disease?
Cats get heartworm disease in the same way that dogs do. MOSQUITOES transmit the disease by biting an already infected animal, and then pass the infection on to other animals they bite. Indoor cats are not totally safe. Any mosquito that enters the house may bite the cat transmitting heartworm disease to them.
Even one worm is a bad thing
Even one worm can be fatal in the cat.
Signs of heartworm disease are not usually seen until very late in the disease process
Coughing, breathing difficulties, vomiting and weight loss may be observed. However, most can DIE before showing any clinical signs.
Diagnosis is difficult
Specific diagnostic tests are not totally accurate in diagnosing the disease.
There is no good solution once the cat is infected with heartworms
Treatment of the infection has a high chance of serious complications, including death! Without treatment the risks of lung damage and death remain.
PREVENTION IS AVAILABLE
Heartguard™
For Cats, is available as meat-based chewable tablets. It may be given whole by hand, in pieces, or mixed in food. In addition to heartworm this also prevents certain intestinal parasites.
Revolution
Revolution is a topically applied preventive for heartworm, intestinal parasites, fleas, and certain skin mites. Each dose gives your cat a full month of protection and gives you peace of mind that your kitty is protected. The medication should be given all year long, n the area.