What Is A Heartworm?

Heartworm is a parasitic roundworm that infests pets, especially cats and dogs. The worm is spread from host to host through insect bites. A single bite from an infected black fly or mosquito is enough to spread the worm to your pet. These worms cause life-threatening conditions such as filariasis or heartworm disease.

Heartworm disease is a serious condition that affects your pets. If left untreated, it can cause major health problems, including death. The symptoms of heartworm disease are often undetectable. This is because the heartworm larva takes months to develop into a full worm. For this reason, it’s important to take your cat or dog to the vet for testing on a regular basis. At University Animal Clinic we provide heartworm testing in Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch and the surrounding areas.

Heartworm Disease In Cats

In cats, the effects of heartworms typically aren’t that severe since the worms cannot survive to adulthood. However, heartworms in cats can cause respiratory problems, which may be fatal. While there’s no heartworm cure for cats at this time, giving your cat heartworm prevention medicine is one of the best options for combating this disease in felines.

Bengal Cat Relaxing

Golden Retriever Walking

Heartworm Disease In Dogs

The effects of heartworm disease in dogs are more profound than in other pets. This is because the dog’s anatomy offers a favorable environment for the heartworm parasite to thrive. The parasite isn’t only able to mature to adulthood, but it also can produce offspring. Heartworms are dangerous as they live in the heart, lungs and other vital organs.

Symptoms of this disease in dogs are hard to discern. However, common signs include:

Persistent coughing
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Swollen belly
Rapid weight loss
Seizures

The disease is endemic along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts where tropical and subtropical climates are more predominant. If you reside in any of these geographical locations, then you should consider taking your pet to the vet for heartworm testing.

Schedule A Flea & Tick Treatment For Your Pet

Why Test Your Pet For Heartworm?

The heartworm larva takes close to seven months to mature to adulthood. This means that your pet may be suffering in silence. The fact that heartworm disease does not have obvious symptoms makes it visibly impossible to detect the presence of heartworms in your pet. Testing is beneficial, as it allows for early treatment in case of any heartworm infestation.

Dogs Playing

Dog Cat Resting

Heartworm Treatment For Pets

Heartworm treatment starts with a blood test or urinalysis to determine the condition of your pet. If heartworms are present, your vet will prescribe Immiticide, Ivermectin or Doxycycline to treat your pet. The doctor may also use steroid therapy to resolve the effects of heartworm treatment. In severe cases, surgery may be the only option to treat heartworm disease.

Contact University Animal Clinic

We at University Animal Clinic have a passion for preventive care. We believe that early testing is the best way to prevent the spread of heartworm disease. Don’t let your cat or dog suffer in silence. Bring them along for a heartworm test in our accredited AAHA hospital in Bradenton, Florida. Take the next step and call (941) 253-5218 or contact us online today.

What Our Clients Have To Say

I wasn’t holding my breath that a vet would work hard to help diagnose my leopard gecko. I was wrong. The doctor worked hard to diagnose why our pet lizard stopped eating & ran a battery of tests.
Paulina Testerman

Vets and staff are knowledgeable and efficient. Clean and friendly Vet office. My dog now goes in to see her Vet with out balking.

Sara Little

Dr. Fink was just super with the Bruiser on his last visit. The entire staff was attentive, caring and professional. We would highly recommend University Animal Clinic to all who love their pets and want the best care for them.

ARF

All employees are amazing with animals. I am glad I found a Vet’s office that makes me feel that my 5 months old puppy is in the best hands

Heide Myrick

Even with full covid-19 protection our Basset was well cared for by the staff, I received detailed home care instructions and got a ‘checking on you’ call the next day. Our basset is on the way to revovery. Perfect outcome. Great caring friendly staff.

Stan Yonkauski

Met Dr. Sam and Dr. Fink today and was very impressed. We have been a client of University Animal Clinic since it opened with Dr. Rill. My wife and I feel very comfortable with these ladies and plan to keep our relationship with them. The staff and Dr’s are very helpful and friendly.
Pet Parent

The very best of care, the entire staff always gives their all and truly cares about both patient and parents! You won’t find a better clinic in Sarasota.

Ron Marano

My dogs, Max and Leo, always have a very positive experience at UAC. The staff is friendly and professional. The office is efficient and clean. I appreciate the ability to check on the dogs’ vaccinations, etc., on the pet portal. Great vet practice.

Ronni Silverman

The entire staff was friendly and professional. Dr. Sam was extremely knowledgeable, kind, and eased my anxiety. Even though I was worried they comforted me, answered all of my questions, and took great care of my fur baby.

Zach Gennette

It is very difficult to find an avian vet who is kind while not sugar coating what can be bad news. I had no idea conures get cataracts as they get older, helped me understand my bird’s actions. The Dr. is wonderful!

Jessica Sakas

Pet Heartworm Prevention in Lakewood Ranch, Florida