Page 12 - Palm City Spotlight - January '24

Page 12, Palm City Spotlight

tip of tHe tail

Understanding Heartworm and then burrow into the bite wound. Over the next few heartworm preventives can effectively safeguard cats
Disease In Cats months, the larvae mature and migrate through the cat’s from heartworm infection. It is essential to note that
preventives for cats differ significantly from those for
tissues, eventually ending up in the heart and lungs.
Symptomatology dogs, as certain preventives used for dogs, such as those
Detecting heartworm disease in cats can be challenging, containing the drug ivermectin, can be toxic for cats.
as they exhibit various symptoms, many of which can Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to
be attributed to different ailments. The most common determine the most suitable preventive options for your
signs include coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, feline friend.
lethargy, weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and Conclusion
sudden collapse. However, some cats may not exhibit any Heartworm disease in cats is a serious condition
symptoms at all, making diagnosis even more elusive. that requires vigilance and proactive prevention. While
Diagnosis cats may be more resistant to heartworms than dogs,
Diagnosing heartworm disease in cats is a complex the potential consequences can still be devastating. By
process. Blood tests are typically performed, looking for understanding the transmission, symptoms, diagnosis,
specific antigens produced by adult female heartworms. and treatment options for heartworm disease in cats,
However, these tests are not always reliable for detecting pet owners can take appropriate measures to protect
heartworms in cats, as they tend to have lower worm their feline companions. Regular veterinary checkups,
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially life- burdens compared to dogs. Imaging techniques, such mosquito control measures, and adherence to proper
threatening condition that can affect not only dogs but as X-rays and ultrasounds, might be employed to assess preventive protocols are all vital in ensuring the well-
also cats. While cats are generally considered more heart and lung abnormalities, while echocardiography being and longevity of our beloved cats. Remember,
resistant to heartworms than dogs, the consequences can help visualize any adult worms present. prevention is the key to keeping heartworms at bay.
of the disease can be severe in felines, often leading to Treatment And Prevention Established in 1981, Palm City Animal Medical
respiratory distress and even sudden death. In this article, Treating heartworm disease in cats is not as Center is dedicated to providing the best possible care
we will delve into the key aspects of heartworm disease straightforward as it is in dogs. No approved medications for your pets. With focuses on compassionate care in
in cats, including how it is transmitted, symptoms to look currently exist for eliminating heartworms in infected surgery, physical therapy and rehabilitation, preventative
out for, diagnostic methods, and prevention. cats. Consequently, treatment focuses on managing medicine, extensive diagnostics, and emergency service,
Transmission And Life Cycle the symptoms and preventing further complications. Palm City Animal Medical Center combines exceptional
Heartworms, known as Dirofilaria immitis, are Medications may be prescribed to alleviate respiratory medical care with a caring philosophy for pets and their
transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. distress and reduce inflammation in the lungs and airways. owners. For more information, call (772) 283-0920, visit
When a mosquito carrying infective heartworm larvae Prevention is key when it comes to heartworm www.palmcityanimalmedicalcenter.com or find us on
bites a cat, the larvae are deposited onto the cat’s skin disease in cats. Regular use of veterinarian-prescribed Facebook at www.facebook.com/PalmCityAnimalClinic.
Treasure Coast Outdoors

Pompano And Spanish started a fishing club in Martin County again. I got a pleasant Editor’s note: Jim Weix is an avid hunter, angler,
Mackerel Dominate The “blast from the past” this week. conservationist, as well as an outdoor writer. Jim is
included in the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s Hall of
It was a fundraising event announcement from the
Fishing Action Wisconsin Waterfowl Association. This is an organization Fame for helping restore thousands of acres of wetlands.
Jim is a broker associate with The Keyes Company. He
that I and six other people started 40 years ago. Today it has
By Jim Weix 10,000 members and continues to restore wetlands and do can be reached at (772) 341-2941 or email jimweix@
Florida fishing is pretty other conservation projects throughout Wisconsin. jimweix.com.
predictable, although the
dolphin seem to be playing
hide and seek.
Based on the latest day-
old fishing report, Tom Flynn Treasure Coast Hospice
of Palm City’s Lighthouse
Point and I headed out to take A TREASURE HEALTH SERVICE
advantage of the good catches
of dolphins being reported in
the 100-foot to 120-foot range.
The reports made it sound like fresh fish for dinner was
almost a sure thing. I guess the fish didn’t read the report
though. We got skunked and it seemed everyone else out that
day did too. We’re Here When
The good news is that by the time you read this, the
dolphin bite should be good. You Need Us
If winter winds prevent offshore fishing, pompano are
providing good action in the river and from the beach. Sand
fleas and Fish Gum are the most popular bait. HOSPICE CARE
Last month I mentioned that it would be nice if someone Providing exceptional care to patients
in their homes, hospitals, assisted living
residences, and in our Inpatient Units.
GRIEF SUPPORT
Grief counseling for our patients, their
families, and anyone in our community who
has experienced the loss of a loved one.
PEDIATRIC CARE
Our specialized pediatric team helps families
overcome the challenges of caring for a child
with a serious illness.

Proudly Serving Our Community

Treasure Coast Hospice has earned the
Gold Seal of Approval for hospice accreditation
®
Captain’s was established in 1980 servicing
Palm Beach County and is a privately from The Joint Commission.
owned and managed company.
Captain’s is committed to providing 772-403-4500 VISIT US ON THE WEB
dependable, reliable and professional 24/7 www.TreasureHealth.org
ground transportation to and from all
South Florida Airports and Seaports. PBCVH212 Licensed since 1982. Treasure Coast Hospice complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin,
To reserve your vehicle: age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 772-403-4500. (Spanish) ATANSYON:
561-798-2180 or 800-634-7890 www.captainsairport.com Si w pale Kreyòl Ayisyen, gen sèvis èd pou lang ki disponib gratis pou ou. Rele 772-403-4500. (French Creole).