Heartworms?

How can you tell if your pet is infected with heartworms? Here are some warning signs:

• The first sign of heartworm is usually a nagging cough that is not accompanied by other signs of a respiratory infection. The coughing episodes worsen with activity.
• Gradual loss of weight
• Difficulty breathing
• Change in physical appearance (they often develop a “pot belly”) Eventually the walls of the pulmonary arteries will be become inflamed with dead worms.

Additionally, live worms in the arteries will hinder blood flow. Then, the liver and kidneys will also be hindered. A blood test administered by your vet can confirm the existence of heartworms.