How is heartworm in cats spread?
Mosquitoes transmit heartworms from one cat or dog to another. The mosquitoes become carriers of the microfilariae after biting an infected cat or dog. The microfilariae then develop inside the mosquito, and when the infected mosquito bites another cat or dog, the microfilariae are transmitted to the new host. The heartworm larvae then move through the tissues and bloodstream of the cat, eventually reaching the lungs and heart where they mature into adult heartworms.
Why is heartworm disease in cat dangerous?
Heartworms may not produce noticeable symptoms during the initial stages of infection in cats. However, as the worms develop and increase in size, they can impede the normal flow of blood in the body. This can result in indicators of heart failure, and in certain situations, it may even lead to abrupt death.
In addition, cats may also develop a condition known as Heartworm Associated Respiratory Disease (HARD) when immature final-stage heartworms die in the lungs, which can cause inflammatory and proliferative lesions and lead to clinical signs of disease.
What is an effective heartworm prevention?
You can easily prevent heartworm disease in your cat with a monthly application of NexGard Combo®. This spot-on treatment provides protection against a range of parasites, including fleas, ticks, mites, heartworm, and intestinal worms. Keeping your cat safe from parasites has never been simpler!