Hailey Heseltine
ECB Publishing, Inc.
Whether they have fur, fins, feathers or scales, pets are part of the family. Just as they would with any other family member, owners want to make sure their furry friends stay in tip-top shape. Caring pets' health is essential for them to live long, happy lives. One common health concern is heartworms, which according to the American Heartworm Society (AHS), over a million pets in the United States have. To help pet owners stay informed on symptoms, treatment options and ways to reduce risks, April is Heartworm Awareness Month.
What are heartworms? This deadly disease is exactly what it sounds like — worms that are about a foot long, living in the heart, lungs and blood vessels. According to the AHS, they can damage organs, cause lung disease and possibly even leave to heart failure if left untreated. Heartworms can affect many mammals, both wild and domestic. Coyotes and foxes are common carriers, for instance. For many pet owners, this means that their furry friends, including dogs, cats and ferrets, are at risk.
How do heartworms spread? When a mosquito bites an animal infected with the parasites, the infected blood can be transmitted to another mammal when the mosquito bites its next victim. It can then take up to six months for an infection to become detectable.
Dogs are the most commonly at risk, able to have hundreds of heartworms in their body at one time. What are the symptoms? In the early stages, it might look like fatigue, coughs, reduced appetite and weight loss. The parasites can live full life cycles in canine bodies, seriously damaging major organs in the process. Furthermore, they can live up to seven years in poor Fido. Even if the dog is successfully treated, that damage can last. The best thing to do for your canine companions is to discuss preventative measures the next time they get their annual checkup at the veterinarian. The vet can test for infection and prescribe preventatives such as pills, injectible and topical medications. Then, make sure you administer the medication just as regularly as instructed.
Cats can also get heartworms, though they are not as prone to it as dogs. Cats, for instance, can only have a few worms living in their body, the worms cannot live full life cycles, and can only be around for up to about 3 years. Even so, the parasites can still cause organ damage in the form of heartworm associated respiratory disease. For feline friends, the symptoms can include vomiting, reduced appetite, weight loss, difficulty breathing, fatigue and fainting or seizures. Though these infections are more difficult to detect, a veterinarian can also help with testing, x-rays and prevention medication.
In general, any abnormal behavior from a pet is reason to bring them to a veterinarian. Whether if it's for an annual checkup or if you have suspicions of illness, the best way to keep your pet safe from heartworms is to go to a professional for advice to prevent the parasites from finding their way to your furry friends.