Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects pets, particularly dogs and cats. It is caused by parasitic worms transmitted through mosquito bites, and once infected, pets can face severe health complications. At Montana Veterinary Hospital & Boarding, we emphasize the importance of regular heartworm testing.
 

Why Is Heartworm Testing Important?

Heartworms can cause significant damage to a pet’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels. If left untreated, the disease can lead to heart failure or even death. Regular heartworm testing allows early detection, making treatment more effective and preventing severe complications.
 

Even pets on preventive medications need regular testing. Why? Because no prevention method is 100% effective, and skipping testing could result in undetected infections that worsen over time.
 

How Often Should You Test for Heartworms?

The frequency of heartworm testing depends on your pet’s health, age, and lifestyle. Here are general guidelines:
 

Dogs

  • Puppies can start heartworm prevention as early as 8 weeks of age. However, they should be tested by 7 months old and annually thereafter to confirm they remain free of heartworms.

  • Annual Testing: Dogs should be tested for heartworms every year, even if they are on a year-round preventive. Annual testing ensures that the medication is working and that your dog has not been exposed to heartworms.

  • Missed Preventive Doses: If your dog has missed one or more doses of heartworm prevention, testing may be needed more frequently to catch any potential infections early.
     

Cats

  • While heartworm disease is less common in cats, it is still a risk. Cats do not respond to treatment as effectively as dogs, so prevention is key.

  • Your veterinarian may recommend testing if your cat shows symptoms of heartworm disease or as part of regular health checks.
     

Symptoms to Watch For

Although regular testing is crucial, you should also watch for signs that may indicate heartworm disease, including:
 

  • Persistent cough

  • Fatigue after mild activity

  • Weight loss

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Swollen abdomen (in dogs)

  • Vomiting or decreased appetite (in cats)
     

If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, schedule a veterinary appointment immediately.
 

Preventing Heartworm Disease

Heartworm prevention is simple, effective, and much less costly than treatment. Options include:
 

  • Monthly oral medications

  • Topical treatments

  • Injectable preventives (administered by your veterinarian)
     

Your veterinarian will help you choose the best prevention plan based on your pet's specific needs.
 

Heartworm Testing at Montana Veterinary Hospital & Boarding

At Montana Veterinary Hospital & Boarding, we offer comprehensive heartworm testing as part of your pet’s routine wellness care. We use advanced diagnostic methods to ensure your pet is healthy and protected. Regular testing combined with year-round prevention is the best way to safeguard your furry friend’s health.
 

Schedule Your Pet’s Heartworm Test Today

Heartworm disease is a preventable yet potentially life-threatening condition that no pet owner wants their furry friend to face. By staying proactive with annual testing and consistent preventive measures, you can safeguard your pet from the dangers of heartworm disease.
 

Schedule your pet’s heartworm test at Montana Veterinary Hospital & Boarding to help keep your pet happy and healthy. Visit our office in Bozeman, Montana, or call (406) 586-2019 to book an appointment or discuss your pet’s preventive care plan.

Client Education