April is National Heartworm Awareness Month: What Pet Owners Need to Know

At Olsen Veterinary Clinic, we believe that knowledge is the first step in protecting your pets. That’s why we’re highlighting National Heartworm Awareness Month this April — a crucial time to educate pet owners on how to prevent and treat this potentially deadly disease in dogs and cats.

What is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease is a serious and sometimes fatal condition caused by parasitic worms (Dirofilaria immitis) that live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels of affected pets. It is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito and can lead to severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage to other organs.

Dogs and Heartworms

Dogs are natural hosts for heartworms, which means the parasites can live, mature, and reproduce inside them. An untreated infection can lead to permanent damage to the heart and lungs.

Symptoms in dogs may include:

• Persistent cough

• Fatigue after moderate activity

• Decreased appetite

• Weight loss

• Swollen belly from fluid buildup

• In severe cases, sudden collapse or death

Cats and Heartworms

Cats are atypical hosts, so heartworms don’t usually survive to the adult stage. However, even immature worms can cause significant respiratory issues and sudden death. Unlike in dogs, heartworm disease in cats is more difficult to detect and diagnose.

Symptoms in cats may include:

• Coughing or asthma-like attacks

• Vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Weight loss

• Difficulty walking

• Fainting or seizures

• Sudden collapse or death

Prevention is the Best Medicine

Heartworm prevention is simple, safe, and cost-effective, especially when compared to the stress and cost of treating an active infection.

Prevention options include:

• Monthly oral or topical medications

• Injectable preventatives for dogs that last up to 6–12 months

• Consistent testing to ensure your pet remains heartworm-free

At Olsen Veterinary Clinic, we can recommend the best prevention program tailored to your pet’s lifestyle and needs. Even indoor pets are at risk, as mosquitoes can enter your home.

Diagnosing and Treating Heartworm Disease

For dogs, a simple blood test can detect heartworm infection. If a dog tests positive, treatment involves a strict and carefully monitored protocol:

• Stabilization of the pet’s condition

• Administration of medications to kill adult worms and larvae

• Strict rest during treatment to reduce risk of complications

For cats, diagnosis is more complex and may involve blood tests, X-rays, or ultrasounds. Unfortunately, there is no approved treatment for heartworm in cats. Supportive care can help manage symptoms, but prevention is absolutely essential.

Protect Your Pet Today

Heartworm disease is a year-round threat, and April serves as a great reminder to stay proactive. Whether you need to start a prevention plan, schedule a heartworm test, or just want to learn more, the team at Olsen Veterinary Clinic is here to help.

Contact us today to schedule your pet’s heartworm screening or to discuss prevention options!

Your pet depends on you for protection — and we’re here to make sure you both have a happy, heartworm-free life.