Heartworm Testing

Of the many parasites your pet will come across, heartworm is perhaps the most dubious. Why? In the early stages of making their way inside your pet, they cause little to no symptoms. Your furry friend will only show symptoms when they have multiplied into several heartworms, and the infestation has reached a moderate to severe level. Fortunately, our team is here to help you protect your pet from these pesky creatures. Give us a call at 905-257-3700 for more details. 

How do pets get heartworm?

Pets get heartworm after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The mosquito introduces the heartworm larvae into your pet’s system. Once inside, the larvae develop and grow into adult heartworms that can reproduce multiple times inside your pet. Mosquito bites are the only way for pets to get heartworm. 

Can cats get heartworm?

Absolutely! Cats are less likely to get heartworm because their bodies are less ideal hosts, but they are still susceptible to these parasites all year round. Both indoor and outdoor cats can get heartworm.

How do I protect my pet from heartworm?

Regular checkups (at least 1 per year) are the first step. This will allow your vet to check for any ongoing infestations. Then, we strongly recommend your pet receive heartworm preventative medications all year round, all throughout their lives. They come in different formulas and dosing schedules. We are happy to help you figure out which option is best for your pet.