When it comes to heartworm disease, many pet owners assume it’s a “dog problem.” While dogs are more commonly affected, cats aren’t off the hook either. The way heartworm presents in dogs versus cats is quite different, and that matters when it comes to protecting your pet. At All Pet Center, we are breaking down how heartworm disease affects both species for National Heartworm Awareness Month and what you can do to keep your pet safe, no matter whether they meow or bark.
Why Heartworms Target Dogs Differently Than Cats
Dogs are what veterinarians call a “natural host” for heartworms. That means once infected, the worms can thrive, mature, and reproduce inside a dog’s heart and lungs. In some cases, dozens—even hundreds—of worms can live in a single dog. Over 100,000 cases of heartworm disease are reported in canines in the U.S. alone every year.
Cats, however, are “atypical hosts.” Worms don’t tend to survive as long or reproduce as easily in a cat’s body. But don’t be fooled—heartworms in cats can still trigger severe inflammation and sudden complications with just one or two worms.
Common Heartworm Disease Symptoms in Dogs
In dogs, heartworm disease often goes unnoticed until it’s advanced. When symptoms do appear, they typically include:
- Mild to persistent coughing
- Reluctance to exercise or showing fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Weight loss
In severe cases, dogs can experience a swollen abdomen, collapse, or heart failure. Without treatment, heartworm disease can progress to life-threatening stages. Fortunately, treatment is available for dogs, although it can be time-consuming and costly.
How Heartworm Disease Affects Cats
Cats react very differently to heartworms. Even immature worms or small numbers can trigger serious symptoms, and there is no approved heartworm disease treatment for cats once infected. Possible signs of heartworm disease in cats include:
- Sudden or chronic coughing
- Asthma-like wheezing
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Collapse or sudden death
Because symptoms can mimic other conditions, heartworm often goes undiagnosed in cats until it’s too late.
Do Both Species Need Heartworm Prevention? Absolutely.
Whether you have a cat, dog, or both, every pet in your home needs heartworm prevention.
- One infected mosquito can bite any pet—indoor or outdoor.
- Preventative heartworm medications are the only way to stop the disease.
- Cats have no cure, and dogs face lengthy treatment if infected.
Monthly parasite medications are simple and effective for pets. And for dogs, an injectable option may be available for longer-lasting protection.
In addition to prevention, annual heartworm testing should be performed, especially for dogs. This quick test ensures the preventative is working and detects infection early—before major health consequences occur. For cats, testing is trickier and not always definitive, which makes prevention even more critical for them.
Prevent Heartworm in Hot Springs Village, AR
Dogs and cats may experience heartworm differently, but the message is the same: prevention saves lives. Protecting your pet from heartworm is one of the most important things you can do for their health. At All Pet Center, we guide pet owners from Hot Springs, Little Rock, and Conway through heartworm testing, prevention, and long-term wellness for all your pets. Book an appointment today to schedule a heartworm test and set up the right prevention plan for your dog or cat.
