Dangers of feline heartworm vary with factors such as your cat's age, general health and chance of exposure. Ask your veterinarian about potential dangers and the best preventive methods for your cat.
The American Heartworm Society has reported feline heartworm infection in 38 states (primarily wherever canine heartworm disease also is found.) According to reports, cats kept entirely indoors are as much at risk as outdoor cats. In fact, in one study of cats testing positive for feline heartworm disease, 55% were described by their owners as "strictly or mostly indoor cats."
The disease is spread from host to host by mosquitoes carrying heartworm larvae. The infective larvae usually come from dogs within the population that have canine heartworm disease (dirofilaria immitis).
Infected cats usually have low heartworm counts (less than 3 adult worms). But, even these low counts are very dangerous. In cats, heartworms cause a debilitating allergic reaction, resulting in severe inflammation of the lungs and bronchial tree and the formation of cellular toxins. The onset of feline heartworm infection can often lead to "allergic shock" that will kill the host cat.
Yes, prevention is easy with one of the following methods: