Hi Everyone..with permission-
I think it important to share this with everyone and get the word out.. So often we don't ever think about it, Nor suspect until it's too late This comes directly from the site: http://www.knowheartworms.org/
Signs Associated with HARD: Heartworm Associated Respiratory Disease-
anorexia
blindness
collapse
convulsions
coughing
diarrhea
difficulty breathing
fainting
lethargy
rapid heart rate
sudden death
vomiting
weight loss
And If you go to http://www.catwellness.org/ you will find a lot of info well explained..How does a cat get heartworm?
Heartworm infection takes place when a mosquito carrying microscopic-size heartworm larvae bites a cat. The larvae enter through the bite wound where they develop in the tissues. The immature worms then enter a blood vessel and are carried to the arteries in the lung where they cause an inflammatory reaction. Most worms die at this stage, causing even more inflammation. The worms that progress to the adult stage may live undetected for a couple of years. But, when the adult worms die, the inflammation can be severe enough to cause death. The respiratory signs associated with these reactions are called Heartworm Associated Respiratory Disease (HARD).
It really is scary and seems many have no idea. I myself had thought this was only a concern I needed to have for my dog! WRONG!
A great resource for Pet lovers and Veterinary professionals -
http://www.goodnewsforpets.com
I hope everyone has a great day and someone benefits from this info.
