Here at Richey Animal Clinic, we’re committed to helping pets and their people stay happy, healthy, and heartworm-free. If you live in Pasadena, TX and have been searching for a “vet near me” to keep your dog or cat protected, you’ve come to the right place. Heartworm prevention is one of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of pet health care.

Heartworm disease is a potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels. While it’s most commonly diagnosed in dogs, cats can suffer too. But the good news? It’s nearly 100% preventable with proper year-round care.

What Is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease is caused by a parasite called Dirofilaria immitis, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Once bitten, the larvae travel through the bloodstream and settle in the heart and lungs, where they grow into adult worms—some up to 12 inches long!

Over time, heartworms cause serious damage to a pet’s cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Without treatment, the condition can be fatal. That’s why monthly heartworm meds and regular testing are crucial, especially in warm, humid climates where mosquitoes thrive.

Heartworm Symptoms in Dogs

Dogs are natural hosts for heartworms, which means the parasites can live and reproduce inside them. Early stages often show no signs, but as the infestation grows, symptoms include:

• Persistent coughing
  
• Lethargy and exercise intolerance
  
• Weight loss
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Swollen abdomen (due to fluid buildup)
  
• Collapse in severe cases
  

If your canine companion is showing any of these signs, call Richey Animal Clinic right away. The earlier heartworm is diagnosed, the better the chance of recovery.

Cat Heartworm Diagnosis: Why It’s Trickier

Cats can also get heartworm disease, though they’re considered “atypical” hosts. The worms don’t usually mature fully in cats, but their presence still causes inflammation and respiratory issues. Diagnosing heartworm in cats is more challenging because:

• Symptoms often mimic asthma or allergic bronchitis
  
• Fewer worms are present, making detection harder
  
• Standard heartworm tests for dogs may not be reliable for cats
  

Common signs in cats include coughing, vomiting, weight loss, and sudden collapse. Even indoor-only cats are at risk, as mosquitoes can easily find their way inside.

Heartworm Testing: An Annual Must

At Richey Animal Clinic, we recommend heartworm testing at least once a year for dogs and as needed for cats. Testing is quick and simple—usually a blood test that checks for heartworm proteins or antibodies.

If your dog has missed a dose or you’re unsure of their prevention history, testing is even more important. Giving monthly heartworm meds without testing first could lead to dangerous complications if an infection is already present.

Monthly Heartworm Meds and Prevention

Heartworm prevention is easy, effective, and available in a variety of forms:

• Oral tablets or chews
  
• Topical treatments
  
• Injectable options (for dogs only)
  

These medications kill the immature larvae before they reach the heart. They must be given consistently each month to remain effective. Missing even one dose can leave your pup or kitty vulnerable to infection.

In addition to preventing heartworms, many of these medications also protect against intestinal parasites like roundworms and hookworms—an added bonus!

Fun Fact: One Mosquito Can Infect Your Pet

It only takes a single mosquito bite to transmit heartworm larvae to your pet. That’s why prevention must be year-round—even during colder months when mosquitoes are less active.

Treating Heartworm Disease

Heartworm treatment is complicated, lengthy, and risky—especially for dogs with advanced disease. Treatment typically includes:

• Stabilizing the dog’s condition
  
• Administering a series of injections to kill adult worms
  
• Strict cage rest to prevent complications
  

Cats, unfortunately, do not have an approved treatment for heartworm disease. Instead, management focuses on supportive care and symptom control, which makes prevention all the more critical.

FAQ: Heartworm Questions

Can indoor pets get heartworm?

Yes! Mosquitoes can easily get indoors. All pets, regardless of lifestyle, should be on prevention.

Do I need to test if my pet is on year-round meds?

Yes. Testing ensures the prevention is working and catches any rare breakthrough infections.

Is it safe to restart prevention if I missed a dose?

Not without consulting your vet. A test may be needed first to rule out infection.

Can heartworms spread from pet to pet?

No. Heartworms require a mosquito to transmit. They cannot spread directly between pets or humans.

How long does heartworm treatment take?

Treatment for dogs can take several months and includes restricted activity during recovery.

Visit Our Pasadena, TX Animal Hospital for Heartworm Prevention

At Richey Animal Clinic, we’re here to help keep your pets safe from preventable diseases like heartworm. Whether you’re looking for monthly heartworm meds, testing, or just advice, our compassionate veterinary team in Pasadena, TX is here to help. Searching for a reliable vet near me? Schedule an appointment today and protect your furry friend year-round.

This blog is meant for informational purposes only. Always consult with your veterinarian about heartworm prevention and treatment options for your pet.