It’s easy to think of heartworm disease as something that only affects adult pets, but the truth is that it doesn’t wait. Puppies and kittens are just as vulnerable to heartworm infection, even at a young age. At Premium Vet Care, we know heartworm prevention is a powerful tool, and starting it early can protect your pet from long-term health risks. Here’s what every new pet owner needs to know about safeguarding their little one from this invisible threat.

Yes, Puppies and Kittens Can Get Heartworms

Though they may seem too small to worry about such a serious illness, young pets can be infected with heartworms if bitten by a mosquito carrying the parasite. These microscopic larvae (microfilariae) enter the bloodstream and begin their slow journey toward the lungs and heart, where they grow over time into adult worms. Because puppies and kittens have developing organs, even a small number of heartworms can cause significant stress on their systems. 

While kittens are considered “atypical” heartworm hosts compared to puppies, they can still be infected and suffer severe consequences. Prevention is even more important in kittens and adult cats because there is currently no treatment for heartworm disease in felines.

When Should Heartworm Prevention Begin?

Most puppies and kittens are ready to begin heartworm prevention by around 8 weeks of age, depending on the heartworm medication and their weight. At their first or second vet visit, your veterinarian can assess the best time to start. For puppies older than 7 months who have never received parasite prevention, veterinary teams will typically perform a heartworm test before beginning a preventative plan.

There are several effective and vet-approved heartworm preventatives designed specifically for young pets, including:

• Oral chews 
• Topical spot-on heartworm treatments
• Combo preventatives (heartworms and other parasites)
• Heartworm injections (canine only - usually for adult dogs)

The goal is to select a heartworm medication that matches your pet’s weight, health, and behavior. Your veterinarian will guide you through options and adjust as your pet grows.

Starting a Heartworm Prevention Plan for Life

Starting heartworm prevention in the early months of life has long-term benefits. Heartworm medication minimizes risk during a vulnerable life stage. Beginning as early as possible also reduces the chances of accidental exposure or missed first doses, as it can help pet owners establish a monthly health routine. Prevention is painless and easy, and it helps your pet stay healthier for life.

Even young pets on prevention should include regular heartworm testing as they grow. Accidental missed doses may go unnoticed, and heartworm testing confirms that your pet’s prevention is doing its job. Dogs should be tested once a year through a simple blood test. Detecting heartworm in cats can be more difficult, so ask your veterinarian for their recommendations.

Get Your Puppy and Kitten on Heartworm Prevention with Premium Vet Care

Your puppy or kitten may be new to the world, but that doesn’t mean they’re safe from everything it holds. Starting heartworm prevention early gives them the best shot at a long, healthy future, and it’s one of the simplest steps you can take. Premium Vet Care is a mobile veterinary service that can build a heartworm prevention plan that grows with your pet. New pet in the family? Living in Plantation, Weston, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, or surrounding areas? Book a mobile vet appointment for your pet’s first heartworm prevention consult and give them the strong start they deserve.