In fact, chronic respiratory distress in cats, previously attributed to other diseases, may be caused by the presence of heartworms. For some reason, indoor cats have a much higher rate of heartworm infection than outdoor cats. Mosquitoes somehow find their way inside everytime a door is opened, and they're experts at finding the smallest tear in a window screen. The bad news is, there is no reliable and readily available blood test for cats. The good news is, preventative medication is available, to be given once a month from 1 June to 1 November, and there is little risk of serious side effects if given to a cat that is already infected.
Life can be scary, even when the sun is shining and the grass is green.
However, just a visit to your vet and a few simple precautions are all it takes to enjoy a trauma-free springtime with your favorite companion. All rights reserved.