Early-stage symptoms of heartworm disease 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.
How would you know if your dog has heartworms?
A veterinarian uses blood tests to check a dog for heartworms. An antigen test detects specific heartworm proteins, called antigens, which are released by adult female heartworms into the dog's bloodstream. In most cases, antigen tests can accurately detect infections with one or more adult female heartworms.
How long can heartworms go undetected?
Dogs are typically heartworm tested prior to transport, but due to the life cycle of the heartworm, there is a window where dogs may test negative but still have heartworms. Heartworm in these dogs may go undetected for several months or more, allowing them to serve as a source of infection for other dogs.
How do dogs act with heartworms?
In severely affected dogs, you may see a swollen abdomen due to fluid buildup because the heart cannot effectively circulate blood, or notice a cough, or other signs such as respiratory distress. Heartworm disease in dogs is known as a silent killer, because it can take months before your dog shows symptoms.
How long does it take for heartworms to develop in a dog?
Once inside a new host, it takes approximately 6 months for the larvae to develop into sexually mature adult heartworms. Once mature, heartworms can live for 5 to 7 years in dogs and up to 2 or 3 years in cats.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
Can dogs have heartworm without symptoms?Can a dog have heartworms and test negative?
