It’s important to understand what heartworm disease is and how it works and affects a cat like the American Longhair. Knowing signs and symptoms can help you identify the illness sooner and receive treatment in a more timely manner. Heartworms are long worms that invade the bloodstream of a cat and go to the heart, lungs, and other vital organs. They can cause lung disease and heart failure or a condition known as HARD (heartworm associated respiratory disease). If your cat is not on heartworm medication and you are concerned with his health, contact your vet to schedule an exam. In the meantime, look out for symptoms that include coughing, asthma, vomiting, decreased appetite, and weight loss. Some American Longhairs have experienced difficulty walking, fainting, seizures, and the buildup of fluid in the abdomen. Treatment is not as effective in cats as it is in dogs. To learn more how to protect your longhair, contact your veterinarian Colorado Springs, CO.