Quick answer
Mosquitoes transmit heartworm, so prevention is a year-round conversation for dogs and cats. Prevention is far safer and simpler than treating established disease.
This resource is general education, not a diagnosis or emergency guidance. If you think your pet may be having an emergency, call a veterinary hospital or seek urgent care now.
Medical disclaimer
This article is general education, not a diagnosis.
If your pet seems sick, painful, injured, or unlike themselves, call Veterinary Medical Centers during business hours or book an appointment. If you think this is an emergency, seek emergency care now. For after-hours 24/7 emergency and urgent care, MedVet Cincinnati is at 3964 Red Bank Rd., Fairfax, OH 45227 and can be reached at 513.561.0069.
At-a-glance guide
| Situation | How soon? | What helps right now |
|---|---|---|
| Pet | Key prevention point | What to ask |
| Dog | Year-round prevention and regular testing | Which test schedule and product fit my dog? |
| Cat | Cats can be affected even indoors | Which preventive is safe for my cat? |
| Newly adopted pet | History may be incomplete | Does testing need to happen before starting or restarting? |
Why this deserves attention
Dogs and cats experience heartworm disease differently, and no at-home sign can prove a pet is protected. Missed doses and uncertain histories deserve a veterinary conversation.
Helpful steps at home
- Set a recurring reminder and keep product boxes or a medication log.
- Do not double-dose after a missed dose without veterinary guidance.
- Ask before changing products or splitting products between pets.
When to call sooner: Coughing, exercise intolerance, collapse, or breathing trouble should be assessed promptly; these signs have many possible causes.
Make the appointment more useful
Bring your prevention history, travel history, and any records from a previous clinic or shelter.
Common question
Do indoor cats need prevention?
Mosquitoes can get indoors, so cats deserve an individualized prevention discussion.
Care in Fort Thomas and Independence
Veterinary Medical Centers can help you decide what your pet needs next. Book an appointment or contact our team for guidance tailored to your dog or cat. This article is general education and does not replace an examination or emergency care.
Does my indoor dog need heartworm prevention?
Mosquitoes can enter homes, so indoor status alone does not remove risk.
Can my cat get heartworms?
Yes. The disease and available diagnostic approaches differ from those in dogs.
What if I missed a dose?
Contact the veterinarian promptly for a product-specific plan and testing guidance.
