A healthy pet reflects a caring and loving owner. That's why it's imperative for pet owners to be equipped with information concerning common diseases and infections that can have a massive effect on the health of your dog or cat. The danger posed by heartworms to dogs and cats is so huge that any slight symptom should be treated seriously. At University Parkway Animal Hospital in Jackson, TN, we specialize in heartworm treatment and other veterinary services to maintain and restore your pet's health.
What Is Heartworm Disease?
Heartworm disease is caused by a parasite known as Dirofilaria immitis, typically known as heartworm. They are long and live on the right side of the heart or artery. Infected mosquitos happen to be the leading agents of transmission in dogs and cats. Unlike dogs that are the normal hosts for heartworm parasites, cats exhibit different hosting traits, since parasites die in the tissues or get lost in abnormal places like the brain or skin. Studies show that dogs are more prone to this disease as compared to cats.
Symptoms of Heartworms in Dogs and Cats
Heartworm infections in cats are difficult to detect or diagnose because they exhibit vague signs compared to dogs. However, this does not change the fact that both animals experience similar symptoms. Common symptoms of heartworms include:
- Lethargy
- Lack of appetite
- Coughing
- Vomiting
- Shallow or rapid breathing
Heartworm Prevention
The best way to protect against heartworms is with an annual exam and preventative care from our veterinarian. Both dogs and cats can be on preventative medicine, but only dogs can actually be treated for an active heartworm infestation. One additional benefit of preventative medicine is that it often protects against other worms and parasites in addition to heartworms.
Contact Us for Heartworm and Tick Prevention from Our Veterinary Team in Jackson, TN
At University Parkway Animal Hospital, we take heartworm prevention seriously. Our team will work with you and your pet to provide him or her with the parasite treatment they need. If you live in Jackson or the surrounding areas, contact our professional staff today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about how we can help.