Recommended Heartworm Preventatives for Cats

Understanding Heartworm Disease in Cats

Cat heartworm disease is a potentially life-threatening parasitic infection caused by Dirofilaria immitis worms. The disease primarily affects the blood vessels, heart, and lungs and is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Although heartworm disease is less common in cats than dogs, feline heartworm infections can still severely affect your cat’s health.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Heartworm Disease in Cats

Symptoms of heartworm disease in cats can be subtle or severe and may include coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, vomiting, or sudden collapse. Since these symptoms can be similar to those of other feline health issues, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. A combination of blood tests, such as a heartworm antibody test, heartworm antigen test, and imaging studies, can help determine if your cat has heartworm disease.

Why Cats Need Heartworm Prevention

Many cat owners may not realize that their feline friends are also at risk for heartworm disease. Even indoor cats can be exposed to infected mosquitoes, and the American Heartworm Society recommends year-round heartworm prevention for cats to protect them from this dangerous parasite.

Choosing the Best Heartworm Prevention for Cats

There are various heartworm prevention medications for cats, including chewable tablets and topical solutions. The best heartworm prevention for your cat depends on age, lifestyle, and potential exposure to other parasites like fleas, ticks, hookworms, and roundworms.

Topical Heartworm Prevention for Cats

Topical heartworm preventatives, such as Revolution Plus and Bravecto Plus, are popular among pet parents. These medications are applied directly to your cat’s skin mass and provide broad-spectrum protection against heartworms, fleas, ticks, ear mites, hookworms, and roundworms. 

1) Revolution Plus – provides monthly protection against heartworms, internal parasites, and external parasites

2) Bravecto Plus – provides two months of protection against heartworms, internal parasites, and external parasites

Oral Heartworm Prevention for Cats

Oral heartworm prevention medications, such as chewable tablets, are another option for protecting your cat from heartworm disease. These medications are usually given monthly and require a prescription from your veterinarian. Some oral preventatives also protect against additional parasites, like hookworms and roundworms. The most common oral heartworm preventative for cats is Heartgard.

The Importance of Heartworm Testing and Regular Veterinary Visits

Regular veterinary visits and heartworm testing ensure your cat remains heartworm-free. Your vet will be able to assess your cat’s overall health, recommend the most suitable heartworm prevention medication, and perform periodic heartworm tests to confirm the effectiveness of the preventative.

Treating Heartworm Disease in Cats

If your cat is diagnosed with heartworm, treatment options may vary depending on the severity of the infection. Medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms may sometimes be necessary. I want you to know that working closely with your veterinarian is crucial to determine the best action for your cat’s needs.

Conclusion: Protect Your Cat from Heartworm Disease

Heartworm prevention is a vital aspect of responsible pet ownership. Choosing the proper heartworm prevention medication and maintaining regular veterinary visits can help protect your cat from this dangerous parasite and ensure a long, happy life for your feline companion.