Dr. Christy's Pet Information
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Heartworms

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Comparison of Heartworm Disease in Dogs vs. Cats

In both dogs and cats, heartworm disease is caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis and is transmitted by the mosquito.
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Susceptibility:    Virtually 100% of dogs exposed to infective larvae         become infected
Longevity of Worms:   
5-7 years
Ectopic Infections:    Occasionally
Number of Worms:    Not uncommon to find more than 30
Single Sex Infections In High Endemic Areas:    Common
Microfilaria In Blood:   
Persistent, Very common (80%-90%), Can last years (even after death of adult worms!)
Organ with Greatest Damage: Heart and Lungs
Significance of Small Numbers of Worms:    Depends on the size of the dog, the size of the worm burden, and exercise level
Diagnosis:    Relatively Simple
Treatment:    None approved, High risk complications
Prevention:    Several products approved
  • Sentinel
  • Heartgard
  • Iverhart
  • Triheart
  • Revolution
  • Proheart 6 (twice a year injectable)
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Susceptibility:    Lower than dogs.  61 - 90% of cats exposed to infective larvae become infected
Longevity of Worms:
    2-3 years
Ectopic Infections:    Not uncommon
Number of Worms:    Usually less than 6, 1-2 worms most common
Single Sex Infections In High Endemic Areas:    Unusual
Microfilaria In Blood:   
Transient (Lasts about 1 month);  Seen in less than 20% of naturally infected cats
Organ with Greatest Damage:  Lungs
Significance of Small Numbers of Worms:    Potentially fatal
Diagnosis:    Complex
Treatment:    Compound approved, Complications manageable
Prevention:   
Several products approved

  • Revolution
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