subject: Heartworm Symptoms: Know What To Look For [print this page] If a pet owner knows how to recognize heartworm symptoms, early detection is likely and the chance for successful treatment is increased. Ignoring easy to spot or otherwise obvious symptoms can cost a family many years with a beloved pet. Keep a close eye on your pet. Know what to look for and seek treatment as soon as possible.
While there are many symptoms that should alert a responsible owner of the potential for a heartworm infection, there are some that are generally easy to see, even for those who are otherwise untrained. Any loss of appetite or a reduction in weight, lethargy, or a subtle change in the animal's outward appearance might be a sign of something else, but could definitely point to heartworms and should be observed by a licensed veterinarian as soon as possible.
Loss of weight is one of the many symptoms of heartworms in pets. Always keep an eye on how much your pet eats daily, and take note of any loss of appetite or loss of weight. Weight loss can be a symptom of many things, however it is one of the primary symptoms of heartworms, and when noticed it should be addressed immediately.
Aside from loss of weight, an animal's outward appearance may change obviously. Any sign of the ribs becoming more protruded or if the chest seems to have become more prominent or bulged should be noted. Take care too to notice if the animal appears to have trouble breathing. These are each potential early signs of heartworms and should be observed by a licensed veterinarian.
Certainly there are animals that enjoy a good nap as much or even more than a good game of chase or a nice long walk. Still, even the laziest of animals could display a lack of interest in an otherwise appealing bit of exercise if heartworms are present. If an animal that normally enjoys going outside appears uninterested, or if the animals seems to tire easily on a daily walk, consult a veterinarian.
Animals cough for a variety of reasons just as people do. Just as with people, an animal's cough can be an indicator of nothing more than having ingested something improper or too quickly, however it can also provide clues to a bigger problem and is an early indicator of heartworms. Pay close attention if an animal begins to cough frequently. A soft but deep sounding cough is an early symptom of heartworms and should not be taken lightly or overlooked.
Dogs, cats, and most other animals display similar symptoms when infected with heartworms. Along with those already mentioned, these symptoms can also include a deteriorating coat, regurgitation, jaundice and even loss of sight. Any of these issues should trigger a trip to a qualified veterinarian and be explored as a possible symptom of heartworms.
Most heartworm cases are reported in dogs, however many other animals, and even people, can become infected and require treatment. With heartworm symptoms, knowing what to look for and identifying the problem early is often the key to successful treatment and prevention.
