DiagnosisMaking the diagnosis of heartworm disease in the cat is tricky. There are several tests that your veterinarian might want to run, such as:
Complete blood count and chemistry panel
Chest X-rays (radiographs)
Serum heartworm antibody test
Serum heartworm antigen test
Microfilaria test (looking for larva in the blood)
Echocardiogram
Angiography
Transtracheal wash
Treatment
Treatment of heartworm disease in cats is complicated. There are two options, basically:
Adulticide treatment (killing the worms in the heart and lungs)
Conservative treatment (i.e., intermittent corticosteroid therapy).
Home Care and Prevention
There is no specific home care other than to administer medications as prescribed.
Milbemycin (Interceptor for Cats®),Ivermectin (Heartgard for Cats®)or Selamectin (Revolution® for Cats) are the most common drugs used to prevent heartworm disease in cats.
