With so many heartworm prevention products on the market, choosing the right one for your pet can feel a little overwhelming. From monthly chews to topicals and injections, each option offers its own set of benefits. So, how do you know which one is best for your dog or cat? At Jupiter Veterinary Hospital & Urgent Care, we can guide you through the decision with tips on selecting the most effective, practical heartworm prevention plan for your furry companion.
Overview of Heartworm Preventative Options
Heartworm disease is easy to prevent but difficult—and costly—to treat. Preventive medications work by eliminating heartworm larvae before they can grow into adult worms that invade the heart, lungs, and bloodstream. The most common types of heartworm medications available through veterinarians are:
Oral Tablets (Monthly)
These chews are a popular option for dogs and some cats. Many products combine heartworm prevention with protection against intestinal parasites or fleas. These are great for pets who take treats easily or have food-driven personalities. Watch for spit-out or partially chewed tablets, which may reduce effectiveness.
Topical Applications (Monthly)
Applied to the skin between your pet’s shoulder blades, these heartworm treatments are absorbed into the bloodstream. Some formulas include flea and tick control, which can be useful for pets that resist oral medications Topical heartworm prevention does require proper application and drying time. Make sure that your pet does not lick off the treatment.
Heartworm Injections (6 or 12 Months for Dogs Only)
An injection administered by your vet protects your dog from heartworm disease for either six or twelve months, depending on the product used. This is an excellent option for busy pet parents or dogs that are hard to medicate at home. Heartworm injections must be given by a veterinarian and may not be suitable for every dog.
How to Choose Which Heartworm Prevention Is Best
When choosing a heartworm preventative, talk to your veterinarian. The vet will consider:
- Your pet’s age, weight, and species
- Any existing health conditions or medication sensitivities
- How reliable your routine is with monthly dosing
- Your pet’s lifestyle—indoor vs. outdoor, travel habits, etc.
Not all heartworm products are created equal. Some online or over-the-counter options may not meet the same safety and efficacy standards as those prescribed by a veterinarian. Plus, the wrong dose or product for your pet’s weight or species can lead to dangerous consequences. Getting a preventative through your veterinarian ensures that your pet receives the right dosage for their size and the heartworm medication is safe with any other medications they’re taking.
Combine Prevention with Annual Heartworm Testing
Even the most reliable prevention plan should be backed up by routine heartworm testing. No medication is 100% foolproof. Pets may miss a dose, spit out a pill, or have a rare case of resistance—without anyone noticing. A typical heartworm test is quick and painless. Your vet draws a small blood sample to check for the presence of heartworm antigens, proteins released by adult female worms. In many cases, results are ready within minutes.
Choose Smart, Stay Protected from Heartworm with Jupiter Veterinary Hospital & Urgent Care
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer when it comes to heartworm prevention, but with professional guidance, you can find the safest and most convenient option for your cat or dog. Jupiter Veterinary Hospital & Urgent Care can answer your questions, walk you through your choices, and help you protect your companion from heartworm disease year after year. Not sure which heartworm prevention is right for your pet in Jupiter, FL, or surrounding areas like Palm Beach Gardens and Juno Beach? Book an appointment today for heartworm prevention recommendations and annual testing.
