When it comes to heartworm disease, misinformation is more common than you’d think. Many pet owners unknowingly rely on outdated or inaccurate assumptions that put their pets at serious risk. Fleur Pet Hospital wants to set the record straight for National Heartworm Awareness Month. Let’s clear up some of the biggest myths about heartworm prevention because your pet deserves full, year-round protection.

Myths About Heartworm Disease

“My Pet Stays Indoors, So They’re Safe”
This is a very common misconception from owners of indoor cats. The reality? Mosquitoes can and do find their way indoors, through open doors, cracked windows, or on people and pets returning from outside. Even indoor pets need protection. Prevention is very important for felines, as there is currently no heartworm treatment for cats once they are infected. All it takes is one mosquito bite.

“I’ll Notice If My Pet Has Heartworms”
Heartworm disease has a deceptive way of progressing. Pets often show no signs of infection until this disease is advanced and damages their organs. By the time you see heartworm symptoms in your cat or dog, the disease may already be severe. Year-round prevention and annual testing are the only reliable ways to catch heartworm before it becomes a life-threatening emergency.

Myths About Heartworm Prevention

“I Only Need to Give Prevention During Mosquito Season”
It might feel logical to pause heartworm prevention in colder months, but the risk doesn’t take a seasonal break. Mosquitoes can survive indoors and become active during unexpected warm spells. Heartworm prevention should be given every month of the year to maintain complete protection.

“Missing a Dose of Heartworm Medication Here and There Is No Big Deal”
Unfortunately, this small slip-up can have serious consequences. Heartworm preventives work by killing off larvae from the previous month’s exposure. Skipping a dose leaves your pet exposed, allowing those larvae to mature into harmful adult worms. Consistency is everything. One missed dose creates an opening for infection.

“Natural Remedies Work Just as Well”
There is no scientifically proven natural remedy that prevents heartworm disease. Relying solely on herbal treatments leaves your pet vulnerable. Only veterinarian-approved, medically-regulated preventatives provide reliable protection against heartworms.

Prevention and Testing: The Best Defense Against Heartworm

When it comes to heartworm disease, prevention and regular testing work hand in hand. Monthly preventives—whether oral chews, topicals, or 6 to 12 month injections for canines—eliminate larvae before they can grow into dangerous adult worms. Even with prevention, dogs should receive annual heartworm testing during a wellness exam. Why? Because no medication is perfect, and pets can sometimes miss doses without owners realizing. Yearly heartworm tests check that your dog remains protected and give your vet the chance to catch heartworm infections before they become more serious. If you have a cat, talk to your veterinarian about what they recommend for testing.

Get the Heartworm Facts with Fleur Pet Hospital

Believing in myths about heartworm prevention can put your pet in real danger. The good news is prevention is simple, safe, and affordable—and it starts with knowing the truth. Trust Fleur Pet Hospital to keep you informed and your pet protected, all year long. Ready to protect your pet in Des Moines, Norwalk, Indianola, or nearby areas with proven prevention? Book an appointment for heartworm testing and preventatives today!