Learning that your pet has tested positive for heartworm can feel overwhelming. Many pet owners aren’t sure what the next steps are or what the diagnosis means for their pet’s future. At Everett Veterinary Hospital, we understand that heartworm disease is a serious concern—but with the right care and attention, many pets can recover and return to a happy, healthy life.
In honor of National Heartworm Awareness Month, we’re sharing a closer look at what happens after a heartworm-positive diagnosis in both dogs and cats, and why early detection and prevention are key.
Confirming a Heartworm Diagnosis
A single positive heartworm test isn’t the end of the diagnostic process. Before starting treatment, your veterinarian will confirm the diagnosis through additional tests. These may include:
- Microfilaria testing to check for the presence of baby heartworms in the bloodstream
- Blood tests to evaluate your pet’s liver and kidney function
- Chest X-rays or ultrasound to assess the heart and lungs and determine the extent of the infection
These diagnostic steps help determine the stage of heartworm disease and guide the safest, most effective treatment plan for your pet.
Why Activity Restriction Matters
Once heartworm disease is confirmed, your veterinarian will recommend that your pet’s activity be significantly limited. This is because physical exertion can increase blood flow, which may cause dying or dead worms to move into the lungs or arteries, potentially leading to life-threatening complications.
- Dogs are often placed on strict rest, even crate confinement, for several weeks or months
- Cats benefit from a low-stress, calm environment with limited stimulation
- Exercise should be avoided throughout the entire treatment and recovery process
Though it can be tough to restrict your pet’s activity—especially if they’re used to regular walks or play—it’s a critical part of keeping them safe during treatment.
Heartworm Treatment for Dogs
Treatment for heartworm disease in dogs follows a well-established protocol. This often includes:
- Pre-treatment with antibiotics to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria associated with the heartworms
- Administration of heartworm preventatives to stop new infections and target early-stage larvae
- A series of adulticide injections to kill adult heartworms, typically spread out over several visits
Dogs undergoing treatment will be closely monitored for side effects, and follow-up testing is essential to confirm that the infection has cleared. Once treatment is complete, lifelong heartworm prevention is necessary to avoid re-infection.
Heartworm Disease in Cats
Heartworm disease in cats is more difficult to treat because there are no approved medications that target adult heartworms in felines. Instead, cats receive supportive care to manage symptoms and reduce inflammation. Treatment may include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications to relieve respiratory issues
- Oxygen therapy in severe cases
- Regular monitoring to track changes in the lungs and heart
Because treatment options for cats are limited, consistent heartworm prevention is especially important for feline patients.
Prevention is the Best Medicine
Heartworm disease is dangerous, but it’s also preventable. At Everett Veterinary Hospital, we recommend yearly heartworm testing and monthly preventatives for both dogs and cats. These simple steps can protect your pet from a painful and complicated condition.
If your pet hasn’t been tested recently or isn’t on a heartworm preventative, now is the perfect time to take action. Contact us today to schedule a heartworm screening or refill your pet’s prevention medication. We proudly serve pet families in Everett, WA, and surrounding areas.
