Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is an exciting moment full of cuddles, playtime, and first vet visits. But there’s one critical step that often gets overlooked in the early stages of pet ownership: heartworm prevention. Many people associate heartworm disease with adult dogs, but even young pets are at risk. For National Heartworm Awareness Month, The Colony Animal Clinic is encouraging pet owners to start heartworm prevention early because it’s easier to protect a growing pet than to treat one who’s infected.

Can Young Pets Really Get Heartworm?

Yes—absolutely. There are especially high rates of heartworm reported in southern states like Texas. Puppies and kittens can become infected with heartworm disease shortly after birth if they are bitten by an infected mosquito. Even if you are keeping your puppy or kitten indoors, a mosquito can easily get in through an open door or window. Though the worms take several months to mature, the larvae begin their destructive journey through the bloodstream immediately. 

Because young pets are smaller and still developing, the effects of even a few heartworms can be more severe. Their tiny hearts and lungs have less capacity to withstand the stress of infection, making early prevention a must. While kittens are less likely to be infected with heartworm than dogs, there are currently no approved treatments for felines who do contract heartworm disease.

When Should Prevention Begin for Puppies and Kittens?

Timing is everything with young pets. Most puppies and kittens can safely start heartworm prevention around 8 weeks old, depending on the product and once they reach the minimum weight for the medication. If a puppy is over 7 months old and has never been on a heartworm preventative, a heartworm test is recommended before starting medication. Your veterinarian will recommend monthly heartworm medication that is safe for your pet’s size and age, along with the appropriate dosing schedule.

How to Choose the Right Heartworm Prevention

Heartworm preventives for puppies and kittens come in a variety of forms, including chewable tablets, topical solutions, and heartworm injections (dogs only). Combination parasite products are available that also guard against other parasites like roundworms, hookworms, fleas, or ticks.

Getting your pet started on heartworm prevention as soon as possible sets them up for long-term health success. It also:

• Establishes a monthly routine you’re more likely to maintain
• Reduces the chance of missed doses or delayed care
• Gives your vet a chance to monitor growth and adjust dosages accordingly

Heartworm prevention doesn’t stop after puppyhood or kittenhood.Protecting from heartworm disease should become part of your pet’s lifelong care plan.

Start on Heartworm Prevention for Puppies and Kittens with The Colony Animal Clinic

Your puppy or kitten depends on you for protection, guidance, and care—and that includes preventing serious diseases like heartworm. By starting early, you’re setting the foundation for a long and healthy life. The Colony Animal Clinic is proud to offer heartworm testing and prevention for puppies and kittens in The Colony, TX, and nearby cities like Frisco and Castle Hills. Have a new puppy or kitten at home? Book an appointment to start their heartworm prevention plan today.