Getting a heartworm preclusive is one of the loving things you can do for your cat’s
happiness. However…if you’re like many pet owners, you probably have some questions. Here are a few answers to guide you as you narrow down your search.
Q: What is Heartgard?
A: Heartgard is a veterinary prescription made for the prevention of heartworm disease in cats and dogs.
Q: How does Heartgard work?
A: Invermectin is the chief ingredient used. It comes in contact with the parasite’s nerve transmission, paralyzing and killing the young heartworms (larvae).
Q: How often should I give this medication to my cat or dog?
A: Once every 30 days.
Note: you should try to give your dog or cat her Heartgard medicine on the same day, every month. The heart
stickers, included in your purchase, will help you remember.
Q: What if I miss a dose?
A: If the amount of time between medications is more than thirty days, Invermectin’s effectiveness
could be reduced.
( Again, Invermectin kills immature heartworms. And forgettign medications may
enable the heartworms to develop to a point where the medicine is less effective.)
That said, professionals advise scanning your dog or cat for heartworm infection 61/2 months after the missed dosage.
Q: What about sensitive breeds like Collies, is this product safe for them?
A: Collies and other related breeds have shown sensitivity to Invermectin. Fortunately, the dose of Invermectin in Heartgard is
minimal. And the maker, Murial, says that the medicine should be safe if given as
directed.
Q: How soon should I begin giving my pet Heartgard?
A: Heartgard kills larvae your pet was exposed to within the last 30 days. So, if
you are planning to provide your dog or cat a seasonal deterant, feed it to her 30 days after the first mosquito makes an appearance.
Q: What about puppies?
A: You can start your puppy on the deterrant when he’s a minimum 6 weeks old.
Q: What if I desire to protect my pet against other parasites like intestinal worms?
A: Consider looking into Heartgard Plus. In addition to Invermectin, it uses Pyrantel, which eliminates hookworms and roundworms as well as heartworms.
Q: oes my pet need to be examined before giving him Heartgard?
A: Yes. Administering a heartworm preclusive to a dog or cat that already has heartworms may cause a severe reaction that might be hazardous or even fatal for your cat or dog.
That said you will also need to have a veterinarian’s prescription to purchase Heartgard.
You may also consider using a generic Heartgard.
This posting is based on information freely available in the popular press and medical journals that deal with [medical subject]. Nothing herein is intended to be or
should be construed to be any sort of medical advice. For medical advice the reader should consult with his or her physician or other m edical specialist.
