As pet owners, we go above and beyond to make sure our furry companions are well cared for—from feeding them quality food to scheduling regular checkups. But even with the best intentions, there’s one critical area where misinformation often leads to risky gaps in protection: heartworm prevention. At Cave Spring Animal Hospital, we have heard many pet owners say things like, “My pet stays indoors, so they don’t need parasite prevention,” or “We don’t have mosquitoes this time of year.” Unfortunately, these common myths can leave pets dangerously exposed to a disease that is both deadly and preventable.
What is Heartworm Disease?
Heartworm disease is a serious condition caused by parasitic worms (Dirofilaria immitis) that are transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Once inside a pet’s body, the larvae migrate through the bloodstream and settle in the heart, lungs, and surrounding blood vessels, where they grow into adult worms.
In dogs, these worms can grow up to 12 inches long and live for several years, causing extensive organ damage. While less common in cats, even a few worms—or immature ones—can trigger severe respiratory distress or sudden death. Because symptoms often don’t appear until the disease is advanced, many pets can carry the infection unnoticed for months.
Myths About Heartworm in Dogs and Cats
Myth #1: Heartworm is Only a Problem in Warm States
Heartworm is more common in warmer, humid climates like Georgia, but cases have been documented in all 50 states. As climates shift and mosquito populations expand, even regions that used to be considered low-risk are seeing a rise in infections. Heartworm risk is everywhere. Pets living or traveling to cooler areas still need year-round protection.
Myth #2: I’ll Know If My Pet Has Heartworms
This is one of the most dangerous myths. In the early stages of infection, heartworm disease often presents no symptoms at all. By the time coughing, fatigue, or weight loss becomes noticeable, the disease may already be advanced—and much harder to treat. Cats, in particular, may show subtle or intermittent signs. In some cases, the first symptom in a cat is sudden collapse or even death. Discuss regular testing and prevention with your veterinarian.
Myths About Heartworm Prevention
Myth #3: Indoor Cats Don’t Need Heartworm Prevention
It’s easy to assume that pets who live indoors are safe from parasites, but mosquitoes don’t follow the same rules. They can slip through open doors, windows, or screens and find their way inside your home. Once there, they are just as capable of biting and transmitting heartworm larvae to your pet.
Myth #4: You Can Skip Prevention During the Winter
Many pet owners assume it’s safe to pause heartworm prevention during the winter months. After all, if it’s too cold for mosquitoes, what’s the harm? Preventatives eliminate larvae from bites received in the previous 30 days. So, if you stop giving your pet their preventive at the first sign of cool weather and a warm spell brings out mosquitoes early, your pet could already be infected before you start back up again. It is safest and most effective to administer heartworm prevention to cats and dogs consistently, 12 months a year. Talk to your veterinarian about getting on flea, tick, and heartworm prevention during your pet’s annual vet wellness exam.
Myth #5: Natural Remedies Work Just as Well as Vet-Prescribed Preventatives
Some pet owners are drawn to natural or holistic alternatives, hoping for a gentler way to protect their pets. While this is understandable, there is currently no scientifically verified natural remedy that offers reliable heartworm prevention. Veterinary-approved medications undergo rigorous safety and effectiveness testing. These products are specifically formulated to prevent heartworm larvae from maturing in your pet’s body, giving them real protection you can trust.
Stay Up-to-Date on Your Pet’s Heartworm Prevention
Heartworm prevention is one of the simplest ways to protect your pet from heartworm disease—but only if it’s done correctly and consistently. Don’t rely on myths or seasonal trends when it comes to your pet’s health. Our team at Cave Spring Animal Hospital is always available to help pet owners in Cave Spring, Cedartown, Rome, Centre, and surrounding areas choose the best parasite prevention plan. Book an appointment for a heartworm test or to speak with a veterinarian about the best preventive option for your dog or cat.