Is Heartworm Prevention Medication Needed?

[Ezequiel]

Hi Everyone,
I just wanted to ask the cat experts here whether preventive heartworm medications for cats, such as Revolution, are a necessity. We have 4 strictly indoor cats, and our Veterinary keeps telling us that he would like to see all four of them put on Revolution, which is a heartworm/ flee treatment. Two of my cats were on Revolution for a couple of months, but unfortunately I had to stop due to the high cost of this medication. I'm considering getting all of our four cats back on it, but wanted to ask and get your input first. I've heard mixed opinions about heartworm treatment in cats, so please any advice will be appreciated.
We live in Miami, and our vet says we are at a higher risk due to our tropical weather and mosquitoes.

I have attached a pic of Suwi at the vet's office

Thanks,
Ezequiel

 

[WitchyWoman]

This may help you decide what to do https://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources/heartworm-basics

I would use this medication if I lived in an area of risk.

 

[Brigitte Cowell]

I would use Revolution assiduously if I lived in an area of risk. Heartworm is devastating for a cat :-(

 

[Ezequiel]

Thanks for the quick reply. Is Revolution the only option to Heartworm preventive treatment? Does anyone here know of any other available and good options?

 

[Brigitte Cowell]

I'm sorry, I only know of Revolution for this. I live in a very low risk area where we rarely see fleas let alone mosquitoes! The chilly fog of San Francisco seems to keep most insects away...

I would be wary of cheap alternatives as not being as effective a medication.

 

[John Popp]

I use revolution as prescribed in the problem months here in Ohio, and stretch things out to 6 weeks after labor day. Once the snow flies I drop it completely until Easter.

Living where you are I don't think I would roll it back much, but I might also look at getting your yard sprayed.

 

[NikkiA]

We use revolution year round. We are in NJ.
It is expensive with three boys, but the MOSQUITOES are vicious here, and the fleas can survive warmer winters, and I don't want to take any chances. I know there are many who do not, and are ok, but we medicate year round.

 

[Patti]

I agree with the others, if I lived in a high risk area I would also treat my pets. I like Revolution because it also treats intestinal parasites and ear mites, but there are several other medications that can be used. Here is a link that compares different products:
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?articleid=580