Heartworm disease in cats differs from dogs and is often missed until serious respiratory disease develops. Prevention is safe and simple; treatment options are limited, making prevention critical.
Feline heartworm is a welfare concern that is poorly recognized by many cat owners and some veterinarians. The clinical presentation of respiratory distress and sudden death causes acute suffering without warning in unprotected cats. Unlike dogs, there is no treatment option — prevention is the only welfare intervention. Year-round prevention is recommended for cats in endemic areas regardless of indoor or outdoor status.