Heartworm Disease Testing, Prevention, and Treatment from Our Veterinarian near You

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition that affects both dogs and cats. Caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, this disease can lead to severe health complications if left untreated. At Marketplace Veterinary Clinic in Bryant, AR, we are dedicated to helping pet owners understand heartworm disease and how to protect their furry companions.

What is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease is caused by Dirofilaria immitis, a parasitic worm transmitted through mosquito bites. When an infected mosquito bites your pet, it deposits microscopic larvae into its bloodstream. Over the course of several months, these larvae mature into adult heartworms, which can grow up to 12 inches long.

Adult heartworms primarily reside in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels, causing damage that can lead to heart failure, lung disease, and other serious health issues.

Signs and Symptoms of Heartworm Disease

Heartworm disease can be difficult to detect in its early stages, as symptoms may not appear until the infection is advanced. Common signs in dogs include:

•             Persistent coughing

•             Fatigue after mild activity

•             Difficulty breathing

•             Decreased appetite and weight loss

Heartworm symptoms are harder to spot in cats but may include coughing, vomiting, or sudden collapse. That is why regular testing is essential for early detection and treatment.

Prevention is Key

The good news is that heartworm disease is preventable. Monthly heartworm preventatives are highly effective at protecting your pet. At Marketplace Veterinary Clinic, we recommend year-round prevention to ensure your pet stays safe, especially in areas where mosquitoes are prevalent. Our veterinarian can recommend the best options for your pet’s breed, age, and lifestyle.

In addition to prevention, annual heartworm testing is crucial. Even if your pet is on a preventative, testing ensures that the medication is working effectively and that your pet remains heartworm-free.

Treatment for Heartworm Disease

While heartworm disease can be treated in dogs, the process is lengthy, costly, and can be stressful for your pet. Unfortunately, there is no approved treatment for heartworm disease in cats, which can make it fatal, meaning prevention even more critical.

Call Our Veterinarian in Bryant, AR, for Help Protecting Your Pet Today

Do not wait until it is too late, protect your pet from heartworm disease with regular testing and prevention. Call Marketplace Veterinary Clinic in Bryant, AR, at (501) 943-8055 to schedule your pet’s heartworm treatment today!