At Anasazi Animal clinic, our qualified team can help you determine if your pet has heartworm or another dangerous disease. While most commonly found in the southern part of the United States, heartworm can be a very scary and debilitating illness and it has been found in pets who have only lived in Arizona.
Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworm symptoms can vary with dogs and cats. With dogs, they may begin coughing and not want to exercise like normal. Decreased appetite, weight loss, and general lethargy can be observed.
Symptoms of heartworm in cats are similar to dogs. Coughing is a common occurrence, as cats show more signs of lung distress than dogs. This can lead to pulmonary infection, which can often be misdiagnosed as feline asthma. They can also have the weight loss, lack of appetite, and periodic vomiting. As the symptoms and the disease progress, they can have difficulty walking, collapsing, seizures, or sudden death is a worry for both dogs and cats.
While heartworm and its effects can be devastating, if not fatal, for pets, it is preventable. Heartworm prevention medication is safe and effective and should be given year-round. Whether you’ve never had your pet on heartworm medication or you need a refill, our team at Anasazi Animal Clinic can help.
As part of your pet’s annual wellness exam, we’ll talk to you about potential exposure to mosquitos and then conduct a simple blood test. Once we know your pet is heartworm free, you can begin giving him the monthly medication that will help prevent the disease.
When it comes to your pets, it’s important to pay attention to them. If you don’t already know their behaviors in certain situations, learn them. By knowing when your pet expresses discomfort, anxiety or the general sense that something just isn’t right, the more you can prevent long-term illness.
If you want more information about heartworm or any other pet disease, call our experienced animal clinic. Our team wants to make sure your pets have the protection and care they need for a long, happy and healthy life.