The intermediate host of heartworm disease in cats is mosquitoes. Some cats infected with heartworms may have no obvious clinical symptoms, only weight loss, vomiting, and loss of appetite. However, if the disease is not treated, the cat usually develops in two weeks. Will die naturally within the year.

1. Pathogens and Transmission

Although cats are not normal hosts of heartworms, they are more resistant to heartworms than dogs, and adult heartworms do not reproduce larvae in cats; however, in areas with high heartworm prevalence, if cats are infected by mosquitoes If bitten, there is still a chance that the cat will become infected.

2. Symptoms

Heartworm-infected cats usually die naturally within 2 years, sometimes traveling to the brain, spinal cord, or subcutaneous tissue. Cats infected with heartworms may have no clinical symptoms, with only weight loss, loss of appetite, and vomiting. Cats may also experience coughing, difficulty breathing, or even sudden death due to the worms blocking the pulmonary arteries.

3. Prevention

Avoid your cat being bitten by mosquitoes. If you suspect infection, please ask a veterinarian to conduct a detailed examination of your cat.