Myths About Heartworm Disease

Heartworm disease is endemic in the state of Delaware.  This means that the disease is found commonly in all parts of the state.  Heartworm is a serious disease that is transmitted by the bite of an infective mosquito.  Read on for some common myths and facts about this important disease.

1. Cats don’t get Heartworm Disease.  Myth.  While cats are infected with heartworm disease at a lower rate than dogs, it does occur in cats.  Furthermore, it is much more difficult to both diagnose and treat in our feline friends.  Also in cats, the symptoms tend to be worse.  Talk to your veterinarian today about starting your cat on heartworm preventative.  2. Indoor pets don’t need heartworm preventative.  Myth.  Have you ever opened your door on a warm evening only to discover you’ve let in a host of insects with you?  It is quite likely that one of those insects you have let in will be a mosquito.  The bite from just one infective mosquito is enough for your pet to contract Heartworm Disease. 3.You can stop giving your pet heartworm preventative in the winter.  Myth.  It is true that the majority of cases of heartworm disease are contracted in the warmer seasons.  However, mosquitoes are very tricky and adaptive insects and have been found alive in Delaware in all months of the year. 4. Heartworm Disease is simple to prevent but difficult to treat.  Fact.  One monthly dose of Heartworm Preventative all year long will protect your pet against this potentially deadly disease.  In fact, heartworm preventatives are so effective that they are guaranteed to prevent heartworm if purchased through your veterinarian.  A dog diagnosed with Heartworm Disease will need special care by both yourself and your veterinarian.  This is time-consuming, unhealthy for your pet, and many times more expensive than a monthly preventative. 5. Your veterinarian is the best source of information about all aspects of Heartworm Disease.  Fact.  Contact your veterinarian at Brenford Animal Hospital for more information or to answers questions that you might have. –RAJ (4.3.12)