We all know mosquitoes are pesky, but for pets, they’re far more than an annoyance. These tiny, flying insects are the sole carriers of heartworm disease—and it only takes one bite to put your pet’s health at serious risk. At Herd Health Management, we want pet owners to understand just how mosquitoes spread heartworm to cats and dogs and what you can do to break the cycle before it starts.
The Mosquito’s Role in Heartworm Transmission
Heartworm disease begins when a mosquito bites an infected animal, typically a dog or wild mammal like a coyote. In that moment, the mosquito picks up microscopic larvae called microfilariae, which then mature inside the mosquito over the next 10 to 14 days. When the infected mosquito bites your pet, it deposits these larvae into their bloodstream. From there, the larvae travel throughout your pet’s body, making their way to the heart and lungs, where they will grow into adult worms capable of causing life-threatening damage.
Why Mosquitoes Are Such Effective Spreaders of Heartworm
Mosquitoes are relentless, resourceful, and nearly impossible to avoid.
- They breed in standing water, which can be found in puddles, flower pots, gutters, or water bowls left outdoors.
- They bite day and night, with increased activity at dawn and dusk.
- They easily find their way indoors, meaning indoor cats aren’t immune.
Because of these factors, avoiding mosquitoes entirely just isn’t realistic. This makes heartworm disease prevention—not mosquito control—the key to protecting your pet.
While mosquito populations surge in warmer months, many areas experience year-round mosquito activity. This means that if you skip your pet’s heartworm prevention, even in winter, your pet could still be at risk. Heartworm prevention works by eliminating larvae from the previous month’s exposure. Pausing prevention, even briefly, can leave your pet vulnerable to infection.
Breaking the Cycle: Heartworm Prevention and Testing
The good news is that you don’t have to lose sleep over every mosquito bite—if your pet is protected with a consistent prevention plan. Monthly preventatives or heartworm injections (for dogs) work by killing off larvae before they mature. Heartworm medication is simple, safe, and far less costly than the emotional and financial burden of treating heartworm disease. Especially for felines, note that there is no currently approved heartworm treatment for cats if they get heartworm disease.
Even with diligent prevention, we recommend yearly heartworm testing for dogs. This quick blood test checks for infection and ensures your canine’s preventive medication is working as expected. Remember:
- Pets may accidentally miss doses.
- Some pets vomit or reject pills without notice.
- Testing catches early infections before symptoms arise.
Stop Heartworm Before It Starts with Herd Health Management
Mosquitoes will always be a part of our environment, but heartworm disease doesn’t have to be part of your pet’s life. With year-round prevention and regular testing, you can protect your dog or cat from this dangerous parasite. At Herd Health Management, we’re here to help you create a plan that keeps your pet safe every season. We provide in-clinic and mobile vet care for Gilbert, AZ and surrounding areas like San Tan Valley and Mesa. Take control of your pet’s protection. Book an appointment to schedule a heartworm test or get started on a prevention plan that works for your pet.
