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5 results for “Dirofilaria immitis”
Canine Heartworm Disease (Dirofilariasis): Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Heartworm disease is caused by Dirofilaria immitis, transmitted by mosquitoes, and lives in the heart and pulmonary arteries of dogs (and cats). It is preventable with monthly preventives; adult infections require careful veterinary treatment.
How Dangerous Is Heartworm in Dogs? Infection, Symptoms, and Prevention
Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) is a hidden but deadly internal parasite spread by mosquitoes. Early infection shows almost no signs, yet it can cause heart and lung failure and is fatal in advanced cases. The good news: it is fully preventable with monthly preventives and annual testing.
How to Prevent Heartworm Infection in Dogs
Heartworm in dogs is spread mainly by mosquito bites and, less often, from an infected mother to her puppies. Signs such as coughing, tiredness, and poor appetite appear only after worms mature in the heart and lungs, so prevention — regular checkups, monthly preventives, and mosquito avoidance — is far safer than treatment.
Canine and Feline Caval Syndrome (Heartworm): Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Caval syndrome is the acute, life-threatening form of heartworm disease in which adult worms suddenly obstruct the vena cava and heart, causing sudden collapse, bloody urine, and jaundice. Emergency surgical removal of the worms is the definitive treatment, and prevention depends on year-round parasite control.
Cor Pulmonale in Dogs and Cats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Cor pulmonale (pulmonary heart disease) is right-sided heart failure driven by high pressure in the pulmonary arteries, usually from chronic lung disease, heartworm, or chest-wall disorders. Signs include cough, labored breathing, and fluid buildup, and treatment must target the underlying cause.