Are Senior Pets Still at Risk for Heartworm?
Absolutely. Age doesn’t protect pets from mosquitoes or the parasites they carry. In fact, older pets may face greater risk of complications if they become infected due to weakened immune systems, pre-existing heart or lung conditions, and slower recovery from treatments. Even if your senior pet no longer spends much time outdoors, they can still be bitten by mosquitoes that enter your home. Some symptoms of heartworm can mimic other age-related health issues, like being tired after exercise. This makes early detection more challenging, so heartworm prevention is a must.
Adjusting Preventive Heartworm Care with Age
When caring for a senior pet, your veterinarian may adjust their heartworm prevention strategy to fit their specific needs. Factors to consider include:
- Medication Tolerance: Some senior pets may have sensitivities to certain ingredients or delivery methods (chewables vs. topicals).
- Organ Function: Liver and kidney health are important when choosing any medication.
- Cognitive Changes: Pets who are more anxious may benefit from simpler, lower-maintenance options like injectables (for dogs).
Veterinarians will always review your pet’s full health profile before recommending or continuing a heartworm medication. They will also administer a heartworm test during your pet’s annual (or bi-annual) wellness exam. The goal is to find the safest, most reliable method to protect cats and dogs without compromising their comfort.
What to Do If Your Senior Pet Tests Positive for Heartworm
In the unfortunate event that a senior pet tests positive for heartworm, the heartworm disease treatment process must be handled with extra caution. Your veterinarian will assess whether your dog is strong enough for treatment and may recommend additional tests or stabilization first. Treatment may need to be modified or slowed to reduce stress on the heart and other organs. Unfortunately, there is currently no treatment for eliminating heartworm disease in cats. If you have a cat that tests positive, a vet team will discuss managing symptoms rather than treating the disease.
Heartworm prevention remains the most effective and compassionate choice. It spares your aging pet from the strain and risks of late-stage heartworm disease.
Keep Senior Pets Safe from Heartworm with Orange City Family Animal Care
No pet ever outgrows the need for protection—especially when it comes to heartworm disease. For senior dogs and cats, prevention is both a practical safeguard and an act of love. Orange City Family Animal Care can help you choose a heartworm prevention plan that supports your pet’s golden years with care and comfort. Have a senior pet at home in Orange City, IA or Sioux Center, Sheldon, and surrounding areas? Book an appointment to review their heartworm prevention.