If you get bitten by a mosquito, you might worry about some diseases like West Nile. If your dog or cat gets bitten, you might worry about him getting heartworms. There are some signs to look out for. Some of them are subtle and some aren't. At South Coast Veterinary Hospital, we have a vet ready to help pets of Laguna Niguel, CA, who have this parasite. A “veterinarian near me” is here to help.
Prevention
There are a lot of things you can do to prevent this from happening. The first thing you can do is try to mosquito-proof your home. That means making sure there are screens over all the windows with no holes in them. See if there is any still or stagnant water around your yard, get rid of them or cause the water to start moving. These make for prime breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Limit outside time after dusk, since that's when the mosquitoes come out.
Most importantly, you can give your pet medication to help prevent heartworm from taking hold in the first place.
Symptoms
Although cats and dogs have different symptoms, there are a few similar ones, like them coughing all the time or having a lack of appetite. Your pet’s stomach may be bloated and he may also have a lack of energy.
Treatment
There are treatments for heartworm in dogs. The treatment is long and painful, however, and it can be quite expensive. Also, there is no good way to treat cats that have heartworm because the treatment will likely kill them. It is best to prevent heartworm in the first place.
Get Preventative Care and Vet Care from a Veterinarian at Our Animal Hospital
If you are worried that your dog or cat might have this parasite or if you live in or near Laguna Niguel, CA, a “veterinarian near me” at South Coast Veterinary Hospital can help. Contact us today to make an appointment at our animal hospital in the area. Call us at (949) 249-7777 for vet care or preventative care.