Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition that can affect dogs and cats.
How is heartworm disease transmitted from one pet to another?
The mosquito plays an essential role in the heartworm life cycle. Adult female heartworms living in an infected dog, fox, or other mamal produce microscopic baby worms called microfilaria that circulate in the bloodstream. When a mosquito bites and takes a blood meal from an infected animal, it picks up these baby worms, which develop and mature into “infective stage” larvae over a period of 10 to 14 days. Then, when the infected mosquito bites another dog, cat, or susceptible wild animal, the infective larvae are deposited onto the surface of the animal's skin and enter the new host through the mosquito’s bite wound. Once inside a new host, it takes approximately 6 months for the larvae to develop into sexually mature adult heartworms. Once mature, heartworms can live for 5 to 7 years in dogs and up to 2 or 3 years in cats. Because of the longevity of these worms, each mosquito season can lead to an increasing number of worms in an infected pet.
Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your furry friends from this parasite. While there are conventional medications available, some pet owners prefer natural methods to prevent heartworms. Here are some of the most effective natural strategies:
1. Regular Exercise
Keeping your pet active and maintaining a healthy weight can help boost their immune system and make them less susceptible to heartworm infection. Regular exercise also improves blood circulation, which can help prevent heartworm larvae from settling in the heart.
2. Natural Supplements
Supplements like garlic, neem, and diatomaceous earth are believed to have natural insect-repelling properties. These supplements can be added to your pet's diet to help repel mosquitoes, which are carriers of heartworm larvae.
3. Mosquito Control
Since heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites, controlling the mosquito population in your home and yard is crucial. Remove standing water, use mosquito repellents, such as an EM Collar, and consider planting mosquito-repelling plants like citronella and lavender.
4. Test for Heartworm
The test requires just a small blood sample from your pet, and it works by detecting the presence of heartworm proteins.
5. Balanced Diet
A nutritious and balanced diet is essential for maintaining your pet's overall health and immune system. Include foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins to help boost their immune response against heartworm infection.