Northwoods Animal Hospital

980 Northwoods Drive
Cary, NC 27513

(919)481-2987

www.northwoodsah.com

Heartworm

Heartworm Information 

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What are heartworms?

Heartworms are parasitic worms that live in the heart and blood vessels of pets. Dogs and cats become infected when bitten by a mosquito carrying heartworm larvae, which are then transmitted to the animal. Certain areas, particularly those with standing water or high mosquito populations, have a greater risk of heartworm infection for pets.

Why prevent heartworms?

Heartworm infection can be fatal if left untreated. Potential complications include:

  • Damage to the lining of the arteries
  • Blockage of the pulmonary artery
  • Heart failure
  • Damage to heart valves

Preventing heartworms is far safer and more effective than treating them after infection. 

How to you prevent heartworms?

Heartworm prevention is available as a monthly oral tablet or a topical treatment. Year-round protection is essential to keep your pet healthy.

Even indoor cats need heartworm prevention, as a single mosquito bite can transmit the infection. No pet is completely safe from heartworms, regardless of whether they stay indoors.

Recommended Heartworm Preventatives

Click on images for more information

Advantage Multi

Advantage Multi

Sentinel flavor tabs packaging

 

Sentinel

Heartgard Plus

Heartgard Plus

Trifexis

Trifexis


More information on heartworm from VIN's Veterinary Partner: 



Heartworm: The Parasite




Heartworm Diagnosis in Dogs and Cats




Heartworm Infection in Cats




Canine Heartworms and Preventing Disease


 

For additional resources, please review the American Heartworm Society website