Heartworm Prevention: Comparing Medications and Their Effectiveness

You don't want your pets to end up with heartworm. These parasitic worms can be a dangerous and even deadly experience for pets. Fortunately, it's also a preventable one. If you're in The Villages, FL, and are looking for a veterinarian to help with heartworm prevention, Oxford Animal Hospital can give you the support and care your pet needs. From understanding the ways your pets can contract this problem to how to keep them safe all throughout the year, we're here to help.

What Is Heartworm?

Heartworms are generally small, thin roundworms that are transmitted from one animal to another through mosquito bites. Heartworms make their way into the bloodstream and to the heart, where they take up residence and grow. When caught quickly, heartworms are more treatable than they are in advanced cases, and can be fatal if not treated at all. The best way to handle heartworms is to prevent your pets from getting them. There are several medications that can help with this.

Are Both Cats and Dogs Vulnerable to Heartworms?

Both dogs and cats can get heartworms, which is why they should both receive preventative medications for these parasites. There are areas of the country where heartworms are much more prolific than others, and Florida is one of those areas. Even if your dog stays in your yard or your cat rarely or never goes outside, they can still be vulnerable to heartworm infestations and need medications to protect them.

How Can You Prevent This Issue?

Medications such as Heartgard, Revolution, Interceptor, Advantage, and Sentinel are available from your veterinarian, and are all designed to prevent heartworms from maturing inside your pets’ circulatory systems. Ivermectin, Milbemycin Oxime, and Selamectin are common active ingredients in many of these products. Doses for cats are different than for dogs, and are also based on weight. Many of these medications also treat other types of worms. It can be easier to get an all-in-one style option for your pet.

Contact Our Veterinarian Near You Today

Working with a veterinarian is a good way to help you decide which heartworm medication you want to use. However, it's important to know that the majority of well-established heartworm preventatives have similar rates of effectiveness. In other words, you're likely to get similar value, protection, and peace of mind from all of them. Still, some options may be better for your particular situation than others. If you're in The Villages, FL and looking for heartworm prevention for your pet, get in touch with us at Oxford Animal Hospital today, and let us help you find the best medication for your pet's need.