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Heartguard
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Monthly heartworm prevention is the best way to prevent heartworm infection in cats. One of the most common medications used for this purpose is oral ivermectin, the active ingredient in Heartgard for cats. Ivermectin has been used safely for many years in cats to treat a variety of parasitic infections and has been proven effective in preventing of heartworm disease. According to veterinarian Rebecca Bennett, few cats have shown sensitivity to this medication, making it the one preferred by many veterinarians.
Revolution
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Revolution for cats is another monthly preventive medication for cats. Revolution combines the heartworm preventative Selamectin with digestive parasite control and oral flea control. Selamectin works similarly to ivermectin and is equally as effective. However, Revolution is more expensive than other heartworm preventives.
Interceptor
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Interceptor for cats is another monthly preventative medication. It relies on milbemycin oxime to kill the immature heartworm larvae. Milbemycin oxime has been shown to be effective in preventing heartworm disease.
Other Parasite Control
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In addition to preventing heartworms, Interceptor, Heartguard and Revolution for cats contain medications to control other internal parasites such as hookworms, roundworms and whipworms.
Heartworm Treatment
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While medications to kill heartworms have been used occasionally in cats, there are no approved treatments.
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What is the Best Heartworm Medication for Cats?
Cats, like most other mammal species, are subject to heartworm infections. Heartworms are parasites that are transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Prevention of the disease is paramount to maintaining your cat's health.