Preventing Heartworm in Cats: A Crucial Step for Their Health

According to Kim Ji-heon, director of the 24-hour Jamsil ON Animal Medical Center, “unlike dogs, cats are difficult to treat if they get heartworm, so prevention is important.” This statement was made during a lecture for guardians at the ‘Gungdi Pang Pang Cat Festa’ held at KINTEX in Ilsan, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do.

The Korean Feline Veterinary Association emphasizes that there is no treatment for heartworm in cats. While dogs can be treated for heartworm, cats are more challenging to treat and can lose their lives if infected.

Experts agree that with the recent warm weather, mosquitoes, which are vectors of heartworm, are on the rise until late fall and winter, making constant prevention necessary.

Director Kim Ji-heon advises, “Heartworm is not common in companion cats, but since there is no cure, prevention is necessary.” He also recommends regular deworming medication to prevent ear mites.

Kim Ji-heon adds, “Cats tend to hide when they are sick.” He emphasizes the importance of regular checkups at an animal hospital and consistent preventive measures before any abnormal symptoms appear to help cats live a healthy life.