Veterinarian researchers have made an alarming discovery of late, Heartworms are transmitted through mosquitoes when they bite your pet. The up side is that the parasite can't be transmitted from host to another human or pet.

According to the studies, cases of high heartworm infestation are seen in places where most cases of mosquitoes are reported. There are times when humidity combined with heavy rains is the best condition for the mosquitoes to multiply and wreak silent havoc in your pet's cardiac system.

 Heartworms, with the scientific name Dirofilaria Immitis, are a serious pet health threat. They make their way through the blood and lodge themselves against the walls and chambers of the heart. They appear as threadlike when in its early stages. As these parasites mature, they make heart function and breathing difficult. By that time your pet will exhibit listlessness and lose a lot of weight. Some cases are treatable but some are sadly fatal and may cause you to put your pet to sleep.

There are some Heartworm medicines available over the counter, but treatment may vary depending on the degree of infestation. It is best to be able to have your pet checked and tested for its proper treatment.

Making pets stay indoors does not guarantee your pet will avoid a mosquito bite. Prevention is ideal but it does not involve having your pet indoors all day. Assurance will be cleaning up dark musty places, keeping your property free from puddles of water or any exposed stored water.

 The threat of Heartworms is not seasonal, it is a parasite that can infect pets at any given time of the year infection peak is when rainstorms follow summer heat. Yearly testing and check up is needed by your pets to save them as soon as it is detected.

Symptoms are different among cats, dogs and ferrets which make it impossible for you to treat because you assume an infestation.  Testing and treatment for feline, canine and mustelidae are very much different from each other, experts caution pet owners to have pets checked if they are all of a sudden listless- the only symptom common for health problems.

Dog testing of Heartworms is a blood test that looks for female worms, injection of medication through the veins is done to slowly kill the parasites. Sadly, cats get the raw end of the deal, testing them for infestation are physical examination, radiography (X-ray), echocardiography (ultrasound readings of the heart), angiocardiography (X-ray of the heart with injected contrast fluid), CBC (complete blood count), serologic testing (antigen and antibody study)and microfilaria testing. Cats are more complex to diagnose and some have built an immune system to the parasite.

The key for every pet owner is to be vigilant and mindful. Better yet it is better to do research and be armed with information about how you can safeguard your pet's health.