What are the signs of heartworm disease in cats?
In cats, heartworms live for 1 to 2 years and it is uncommon for cats to have more than 2 or 3 heartworms. Small numbers of heartworms, however, may cause serious disease in cats. Clinical signs of heartworm disease in cats vary considerably. Some cats do not show any significant clinical signs and may appear normal. Other cats develop chronic (long lasting) disease. Vomiting or respirtatory signs (coughing and difficulty breathing) are commonly seen in chronic cases of heartworm disease in cats. Vomiting tends to be sporadic and may or may not be related to eating. Coughing may be intermittent or occur in severe, sudden attacks that may take place days apart. Cats may have severe, acute disease with signs of respiratory collapse and, in some cases, sudden death. In acute cases, death may be so rapid that there is insufficient time to make a diagnosis or offer treatment. Cats that die from heartworm disease can appear clinically normal 1 hour before death. Many other disease can cause
