Understanding Feline Heartworm Disease: Causes & Preven

Part 1: How is Heartworm Spread in Cats?

Heartworms do not spread directly from one cat to another, nor do they jump from dogs to cats. This is because the lifecycle of heartworms is intricate, requiring two hosts to fully parasitize. Mosquitoes are the common intermediate hosts, with over 30 species capable of harboring the parasites. The larvae, or microfilariae, develop within the mosquito's gut for about 10 to 30 days before entering its mouthparts. When an infected mosquito bites a cat, it injects these infective larvae into the cat's body. The larvae then enter the cat's bloodstream, eventually reaching the right side of the heart and the pulmonary artery, where they grow and reproduce.

Part 2: Symptoms of Heartworm Infection in Cats

The initial symptoms of heartworm infection in cats are often chronic coughing and a tendency to tire easily during exercise. As the condition worsens, cats may exhibit tachycardia, weak and intermittent pulse, heart murmurs, fluid accumulation in the chest and abdomen, and possibly generalized swelling and difficulty breathing. Cats with longterm heartworm infections may develop significant pulmonary heart disease, and they may eventually die due to systemic weakness or collapse during exertion. Affected cats may also suffer from nodular skin diseases, leading to itching and sores.

Part 3: Treatment for Heartworm Disease in Cats

1. Administer oxygen to the cat promptly, using an oxygen mask or facepiece to ensure adequate supply.

2. Since infected cats are particularly sensitive, minimize stress and carefully manage the treatment environment to avoid any factors that could provoke excitement.

3. Utilize corticosteroids such as dexamethasone or prednisolone to help reduce the inflammatory process.

4. Treat bronchial dilation with a slow intravenous injection of aminophylline or terbutaline.

5. Prevention is crucial; current treatments include the combination of selamectin and pyrantel with moxidectin, as well as the use of milbemycin oxime and ivermectin, which are highly effective in eliminating larvae before they reach the circulatory system.

Since heartworms primarily enter cats through intermediate hosts like mosquitoes, it's essential for owners to maintain a clean living environment for their pets and take timely measures to prevent mosquito infestations. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to consult an online veterinary expert.