Sudden death in cats is often the first and last symptom! The unfortunate-but-frequent-first sign that a cat is infected with heartworm disease occurs when he or she suffers a sudden and fatal collapse. Just one adult heartworm can be deadly if a cat experiences an allergic reaction.
Can heartworms cause death in dogs?
Not all dogs with heartworm disease develop caval syndrome. However, if left untreated, heartworm disease will progress and damage the dog's heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys, eventually causing death.
What are the symptoms of advanced heartworms in dogs?
Here are five warning signs your dog may have heartworms.Persistent cough. Unlike a regular cough or a kennel cough, which is strong and sporadic, a heartworm- related cough is dry and persistent. ... Lethargy. ... Weight loss. ... Difficulty breathing. ... Bulging ribs.5 Signs Your Dog May Have Heartworms - PetPro Connect
How long does it take for heartworms to cause damage?
It usually takes several years before dogs show clinical signs of infection. Consequently, the disease is diagnosed mainly in two- to eight-year-old dogs. The disease is rare in dogs less than one year of age, because the microfilariae take 5 to 7 months to mature into adult heartworms after infection.
How long can a dog live after being treated for heartworms?
Dogs with heartworm disease can live high-quality lives as long as they are given appropriate care. After completing treatment and following your veterinarian's recommenda- tions on heartworm disease testing and prevention, the chances of any long-term effects are very low.
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