Typically, cats have fewer adult worms than dogs, usually less than six. Many pet owners are surprised to learn that approximately 1/3 of infected cats live indoors only.
What are the chances of indoor cat getting heartworm?
In fact, 1 in 4 cases of heartworm infection in cats occurs in indoor kitties. actually is a heartworm preventive. With so many parasite protection products on the market, it's easy to get confused.
Can Indoor cats get heartworm disease?
Cats can also get heartworms after being bitten by an infected mosquito, although they are not as susceptible to infection as dogs. A cat is not a natural host of heartworms because the worms do not thrive as well inside a cat's body. Both indoor and outdoor cats are at risk for heartworm disease.
How common is heartworm in cats?
Although dogs are the more natural host for this disease, cats are also susceptible to heartworm infection. It is estimated by the American Heartworm Society that, in any given community, the incidence of heartworm infection in cats is approximately 5% to 15% percent that of dogs who are not on preventive medication.
Do indoor cats need heartworm preventative?
Does My Indoor Cat Need Heartworm Prevention? Even if your cat is primarily an indoor cat, it should still be on heartworm prevention. No home is completely insulated from the outside. An indoor cat may still spend some time outside, even unintentionally, and mosquitoes can get inside the house.
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