Symptoms of Heartworms

Any and all dogs can get heartworms, no matter where you live.  Cats can too, but it is more common in dogs.  Heartworms are a disease that causes actual worms to grow inside the major organs of the canine.  The worms grow to be about seven to fourteen inches, and some organs can be home to as many as three hundred worms.

Heartworms tend to be found in the more important organs, and usually damage the organ tissue. This may cause noticeable problems involving the heart, lungs, liver, and even the kidneys. Apparent symptoms of heartworms will be coughing, anemia, and an overall weakness in your dog. Canines will display a severe lack of energy, because the worms will clog the heart and major arteries. This will cause restricted flowing of blood to the major organs causing lethargy.  The valves of the heart may also be affected, causing the same result.

It may take up to two years for your dog to start showing symptoms of heartworm disease. At first you may only notice a slight cough on occasion. As it progresses, the cough will get worse and your dog will be very sluggish. There may also be abnormal sounds coming from the lungs.  When the disease becomes severe, all these symptoms will become much worse. Because the flow of blood to the brain will be so poor, there may be frequent, temporary loss of consciousness. Liver enlargement will occur, as will fluid build up in the abdomen. Abnormal heart beats, severe weight loss, lack of stamina, and even death may occur if treatments are not started in time.

It’s much healthier for your dog if you prevent heartworm disease than it is to treat it. It is much cheaper too.  Some of the heartworm prevention medications also have possible adverse effects, so you may want to seek information on natural remedies. If you have a dog, it is important to take him for regular veterinary visits, so the doctor can assist you in making sure your dog has a long and healthy life.

See Heartworm Prevention for Dogs