When it comes to protecting your pets in Florida, heartworm prevention should be at the top of the list. Our warm, humid climate makes the Sunshine State a paradise not only for people and pets—but also for mosquitoes. Unfortunately, mosquitoes are the only way heartworms are transmitted, which means dogs and cats here face a much higher risk than pets in many other parts of the country.
At the Animal Clinic of Mandarin, we see firsthand how devastating heartworm disease can be, and why prevention is far easier—and safer—than treatment.
What is Heartworm Disease?
Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm (Dirofilaria immitis) that lives in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of infected pets. Mosquitoes pick up tiny immature worms (microfilariae) when they bite an infected animal and pass them along to the next pet they bite.
Over time, these worms can grow up to a foot long inside the heart and lungs, leading to:
Coughing
Fatigue after exercise
Weight loss
Difficulty breathing
Heart failure, organ damage, and even death
Why Florida Pets Are at Higher Risk
Florida’s year-round warm weather means mosquitoes never really go away. Even in the cooler months, mosquito activity doesn’t stop completely. This means:
Pets are at risk 12 months out of the year
Outdoor pets are especially vulnerable
Indoor pets aren’t safe either—mosquitoes get inside homes
According to the American Heartworm Society, Florida consistently ranks as one of the top states for heartworm-positive cases in dogs.
Can Cats Get Heartworms?
Yes! While heartworms are less likely to mature in cats than in dogs, even a few worms can cause serious lung and heart problems. Unfortunately, there’s no safe treatment for cats, so prevention is critical.
Treatment vs. Prevention
Treating heartworm disease in dogs is costly, lengthy, and can be risky. Cats, as mentioned, have no approved treatment. That’s why prevention is the gold standard of care.
Our Prevention Recommendations
At the Animal Clinic of Mandarin, we recommend year-round heartworm prevention for every dog and cat. Options include:
Simparica Trio – protects against heartworms, fleas, and ticks (dogs)
Sentinel Spectrum – covers heartworms, fleas, and intestinal parasites (dogs)
Revolution Plus – protects cats against heartworms, fleas, ticks, and ear mites
Your veterinarian can help you choose the best product based on your pet’s age, weight, lifestyle, and health needs.
✅ Bottom Line: Florida pets are at high risk for heartworm disease, but prevention is simple, safe, and affordable. Keeping your pets on monthly preventatives year-round is the best way to ensure they stay heartworm-free.