Getting a heartworm preventative is one of the best things you can do for your cat’s

happiness. However…if you are like most pet owners, you likely have some questions. Here are a few answers to guide you as you narrow down your research.

Q: What does Heartgard do?

A: Heartgard is a prescription made for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs and cats.

Q: How does it work?

A: Invermectin is the main component. It comes in contact with the parasite’s nerve transmission, paralyzing and killing the young heartworms (larvae).

Q: How frequently should I give this medication to my cat or dog?

A: 1 time a month.

Note: you should try to give your pet her Heartgard medicine on the same day, each month. The heart

stickers, included in your purchase, will help you remember.

Q: What if I forget a dose?

A: If the time between doses exceeds 30 days, The prodct’s effectiveness may be lessened.

( Again, Invermectin kills young heartworms. And forgettign doses could

allow the heartworms to mature to a point where the product is not as effective.)

That said, experts advise scanning your dog or cat for heartworm infection 61/2 months after the forgotten dose.

Q: What about sensitive breeds like Collies, is this dewormer okay for them?

A: Collies and other related breeds have shown sensitivity to Invermectin. But, the amount of Invermectin in Heartgard is nominal. And the creator, Murial, states that the ingredients should be okay if given as

directed.

Q: How soon should I begin giving my pet Heartgard?

A: Heartgard kills larvae your pet was exposed to within the last 30 days. That said, if

you are planning to give your pet a seasonal preventative, give it to her a month after the 1st mosquito shows up.

Q: What about puppies?

A: You can start your puppy on the preclusive when he’s a minimum 6 weeks old.

Q: What if I want to protect my pet against intestinal worms?

A: Consider looking into Heartgard Plus. In addition to Invermectin, it employs Pyrantel, which destroys roundworms and hookworms in addition to heartworms.

Q: oes my pet need to be tested before giving him Heartgard?

A: Yes. Administering a heartworm preclusive to a pet that already has heartworms

could cause a severe reaction that might be harmful or even fatal to your cat or dog.

For this reason you will also need to have a veterinarian’s prescription to purchase Heartgard.

You may also consider using a generic Heartgard.

This posting is based on information freely available in the popular press and medical journals that deal with [medical subject]. Nothing herein is intended to be or

should be construed to be any sort of medical advice. For medical advice the reader should consult with his or her physician or other m edical specialist.