March 14, 2012
Posted in Heartworm Preventatives

While most people regularly use a heartworm preventative such as Heartguard for their dog, did you know that cats are also at risk for heartworm disease?  Cats allowed outdoors are not the only ones at risk; approximately 25-30 percent of all cats diagnosed with heartworm disease are considered by the pet owner to be indoor cats.  Because there is currently no approved treatment for heartworm in cats, prevention with a pet medication such as Heartguard is the best strategy.

Heartguard: Not Just for Dogs

Heartguard and Heartguard Plus for dogs is a pet supply that most pet parents are familiar with.  However, Heartguard also comes in a delicious chewable tablet made just for cats! Like Heartguard for dogs, the active ingredient in Heartguard Chewables for cats is ivermectin, which kills the heartworm larvae before it can develop into adult heartworms.

How Do I Use Heartguard for Cats?

Heartguard for cats comes in two different sizes, one for cats up to 5 pounds and another size for cats 5 to 15 pounds.  Simply select the appropriate dose based upon the weight of your cat and administer one chewable tablet to your cat every month.  Most cats will eat the beef-flavored soft-chew like a treat, eliminating the need to “pill” your cat.

What Else Should I Know About Heartguard for Cats?

Heartguard can be used on cats 6 weeks of age and older. You should be sure to give Heartguard to your cat every month.  Make sure your cat chews the tablet, and does not swallow the Heartguard tablet whole. Side effects are rare, but may include digestive upset such as vomiting or diarrhea.

Related posts:

1. Heartguard: Prevents Heartworm Disease and More
2. Low-Cost Alternatives to Heartguard
3. Heartworm: Are Cats At Risk, Too?
4. Sentinel: Prevents Heartworm, Controls Fleas and More
5. How to Use Advantage Multi for Dogs

Tags: Heartguard, Heartguard for Cats, heartworm prevention, pet supplies