Heartworm Prevention in Sarina

Heartworm Prevention In Animals

Heartworms are transmitted via mosquitoes. When a mosquito feeds on an infected dog, it can suck up microfilariae, which mature into heartworm larvae. When that mosquito then feeds on another animal, it can transmit those larvae, which will then travel through the circulatory system to the heart and lungs, where they will grow into adult worms and reproduce.


Heartworms can cause a range of health issues in your pets, including:


  • A dry, persistent cough
  • Not being able to exercise
  • Weight loss
  • Weakness
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Organ damage
  • Distended abdomen
  • Collapse


When it comes to heartworms, prevention is better than a cure. With regular treatment, it is easy to avoid infection and keep your pet healthy year-round. We offer both daily and monthly tablets, as well as a yearly injection to help prevent infection.


Call Sarina Veterinary Surgery on (07) 4956 1897 to organise heartworm prevention for your pet today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do dogs get heartworm?

    Heartworm is spread through mosquito bites. When a mosquito feeds on an infected animal, it carries microscopic larvae that can be passed to another animal during its next bite. These larvae travel through the bloodstream and develop into adult worms in the heart and lungs, where they can cause serious damage over time.

  • What are the signs of heartworm in pets?

    Common signs include coughing, reduced ability to exercise, weight loss and general weakness. As the condition progresses, pets may develop breathing difficulties, swelling of the abdomen or signs of heart failure. In some cases, symptoms may not appear until the infection is advanced, which is why prevention and regular testing are important.

  • Can cats get heartworm too?

    Cats can get heartworm, although it is less common than in dogs. Even a small number of worms can cause serious health issues in cats, including breathing problems and sudden illness. Because diagnosis can be more difficult, prevention is still considered important for cats as well.

Small Fluffy Tan-And-White Dog Standing on Grass with Tongue out In Sunlight — Sarina Veterinary Surgery In Sarina, QLD

Preventing Heartworm Year Round

If it has been a while since you last treated your dog to heartworm medication, it’s best to get a blood test done first so we can be sure they aren’t infected. If your dog has already contracted heartworms, don’t worry. We have treatment options available to prevent the worst-case scenario. Daily tablets and serious injections will be administered over a 6-month period.


Even once they’ve been killed, heartworms can cause a range of health issues for your pets, which is why we prevention is always the better option. And remember, cats can also get heartworms!


Get in touch with our team to learn more about heartworm treatment and prevention options.