Signs Your Pet Might Have Heartworms: Early Symptoms to Watch For

Keeping your pet healthy means staying ahead of potential threats, and heartworm disease is one of the most serious risks they can face. Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworms can silently invade your pet’s heart and lungs, often showing no symptoms until significant damage has already occurred. Whether you have a dog or a cat, recognizing the early warning signs can make all the difference in getting timely treatment.

Early Signs of Heartworms in Pets

Heartworm symptoms don’t show up overnight. In fact, it can take months for noticeable signs to develop, and by the time they do, the disease may already be causing harm. Keep an eye out for these early warning signs:

• Persistent Cough: A dry, persistent cough is one of the most common early signs of heartworms, especially in dogs. Unlike the occasional hacking from chewing on something irritating, this cough lingers and may worsen after exercise.

• Fatigue and Reluctance to Exercise: If your pet used to love long walks or playtime but now tires easily, it could be more than just aging or laziness. Heartworms invade the heart and lungs, reducing oxygen circulation and making it harder for pets to keep up with normal activity levels.

• Weight Loss and Decreased Appetite: Heartworms can cause a lack of energy and appetite, leading to gradual weight loss. If your pet seems disinterested in food or isn’t eating as much as usual, it’s worth a closer look.

• Breathing Difficulties: Labored breathing or shortness of breath can be an early sign of heartworm disease, particularly in cats. Since heartworms block blood vessels, pets may struggle to get enough oxygen, making breathing more difficult.

• Swollen Belly: As heartworm disease progresses, fluid can accumulate in the abdomen, causing noticeable swelling. This is a more advanced sign, but it’s important to recognize it as a serious red flag.

• Sudden Collapse or Lethargy: In severe cases, pets with heartworms may suddenly collapse or become extremely weak. This is often due to heart failure caused by an overwhelming number of worms blocking major blood vessels. If this happens, immediate veterinary care is crucial.
   

Cats and Heartworms

While heartworms are more commonly associated with dogs, cats can also be infected. However, because cats typically have fewer worms, symptoms can be harder to spot. Some cats show no signs until a sudden respiratory crisis occurs. Others may develop coughing, vomiting, or weight loss. If your cat starts having unexplained breathing issues, even without coughing, it’s essential to seek veterinary attention.
 

Prevention is the Best Protection

Heartworm disease is preventable, and that’s the good news. Heartworm preventatives are highly effective in keeping your pet safe. Oral and topical heartworm preventatives designed to be administered monthly are available, as are injectible preventatives that are administered every 6 to 12 months, depending on the product. Regular vet checkups and annual heartworm testing are also key to catching any potential infections early.
 

When to See a Veterinarian

Heartworm disease is serious and can be fatal if left untreated. At Greenwood Village Veterinary Clinic, we’re here to provide thorough testing, prevention, and treatment options tailored to your pet’s needs.
 

If you notice any signs of heartworms, visit Greenwood Village Veterinary Clinic at our office in Greenwood Village, Colorado, or call (303) 771-6304 today.