Think heartworm is just a summertime issue? Or that your indoor cat is safe from it? You’re not alone—many pet owners have heard (and believed) myths about heartworm disease. But the truth is, this serious and potentially deadly condition affects pets in every state and can impact even those who never leave the house.
Let’s clear up the confusion and give you the real facts about heartworm—so you can protect your furry family members with confidence.
Myth #1: “Heartworm isn’t a problem where I live.”
Heartworm disease is carried by mosquitoes, and if you’ve ever seen a mosquito where you live, your pets are at risk. While warmer states like Florida and Texas have more cases, heartworm has been diagnosed in all 50 states—yes, even in colder regions.
That’s because mosquitoes are surprisingly adaptable. They can travel and breed in small water sources like puddles, birdbaths, and even plant saucers. Pets in urban, suburban, and rural settings are all vulnerable.
Bottom line: Heartworm is a nationwide concern. No region is truly safe, and skipping prevention because of your ZIP code is a gamble not worth taking.
Myth #2: “My pet stays indoors, so they’re safe.”
It’s a common assumption—if your cat naps in a sunny window or your dog only goes out for short walks, they’re not exposed. But mosquitoes don’t knock. They slip in through open doors, torn screens, or even hitch a ride on us.
Indoor pets are not automatically protected. In fact, indoor cats are particularly vulnerable because there’s no approved treatment for heartworm in cats. One mosquito bite can be all it takes.
Both dogs and cats need year-round protection, regardless of their lifestyle. Indoor living may reduce risk, but it doesn’t eliminate it.
Myth #3: “I’ll know if my pet has heartworm.”
This one is especially dangerous. Heartworm symptoms in dogs often don’t appear until the disease is advanced. And by that time, it’s already damaging the heart, lungs, and other organs.
Unfortunately, many pets show no symptoms at all until the disease has progressed. That’s why annual testing is important, even for pets on preventive medication.
Myth #4: “Heartworm treatment is no big deal.”
This is one of the most harmful misconceptions. Heartworm treatment is more costly, time-consuming, and physically demanding on pets than prevention.
Treatment for Dogs
- Multiple vet visits
- Painful injections
- Months of restricted activity (to avoid complications)
- Blood work and X-rays
- Potential hospitalization
And for cats, there is no approved treatment to kill adult heartworms. In many cases, veterinarians can only manage the symptoms and hope the cat’s body can handle the infection over time.
Preventing heartworm is dramatically easier and more economical than treating it. Prevention costs just a few dollars a month and involves either a chewable tablet, topical solution, or injection—depending on what we recommend for your pet.
What Pet Owners Can Do
You don’t have to guess or take risks with heartworm. Protecting your pet is simple and starts with two steps:
1. Use Heartworm Prevention All Year Long
Heartworm prevention isn’t seasonal. Mosquitoes can appear in unexpected weather, especially with shifting climates. Plus, missing even one dose can leave your pet unprotected.
We can help you choose the best prevention option for your pet’s age, weight, and lifestyle.
2. Schedule Annual Heartworm Testing
Even pets on year-round prevention should get tested once a year. Why? No medication is 100% foolproof, and early detection gives your pet the best chance if they’ve been infected.
Testing is quick and typically involves a simple blood sample. It’s a small step that gives big peace of mind.
Let’s Keep Your Pet Safe—No Guesswork Needed
Heartworm myths can lead well-meaning pet owners to skip prevention, delay testing, or assume their pet is safe when they’re not. But heartworm disease is very real—and very preventable.
Talk with us today about the best way to protect your dog or cat. Year-round prevention and routine testing are the keys to keeping your furry family member safe and healthy.
Photo credit: Benoît Deschasaux | Unsplash
