How Often Should Your Pet Be Tested for Heartworm?

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition that can affect both dogs and cats. At Lakewood Pet Vet in Lakewood, CA, our veterinarians place a strong emphasis on timely heartworm testing and prevention. Even pets that appear completely healthy can carry heartworms, which is why regular testing is a critical part of preventive care. Left undetected, heartworms can lead to severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage to other organs.

Annual Testing Is Essential

Our clinic recommends that dogs be tested for heartworm once a year. This annual test helps ensure that any infection is caught early, before it causes lasting harm. Even if your pet is on year-round heartworm prevention, annual testing is still important. No preventive medication is 100 percent effective, and a missed dose could put your pet at risk.

Heartworm Testing for Cats

Cats are less likely to contract heartworm than dogs, but they are not immune. Since there is no approved treatment for heartworm disease in cats, early detection is especially important. Testing, combined with regular parasite prevention, is the best strategy to protect your cat's health. During a routine pet exam, we may recommend testing based on your cat’s risk factors and lifestyle.

When to Start Testing Puppies and Kittens

Puppies should receive their first heartworm test around 6 to 7 months of age. This is typically when a reliable result can first be obtained. If a puppy starts heartworm prevention before this age, testing should still be done later to confirm the medication has worked. Kittens may not require routine heartworm testing as often, but preventive care and close monitoring are still recommended.

Why Routine Pet Exams Matter

Routine pet exams are an excellent opportunity to discuss heartworm prevention and testing with a veterinarian near you. These appointments allow us to assess your pet’s overall health, administer preventives, and run any necessary lab work. Preventive care is not just about avoiding illness—it’s about giving your pet a longer, healthier life.

Schedule Your Pet's Test at Lakewood Pet Vet

The veterinarians at Lakewood Pet Vet in Lakewood, CA, are here to help protect your pets from heartworm and other parasites. Testing is quick and simple, and it plays a major role in your pet’s long-term wellness. To schedule a heartworm test or a pet exam, call Lakewood Pet Vet today.