Heartgard and Heartworms
Heartworms are a common problem that every pet owner faces at one point or another in their pet’s life. Use the tips in this article to prevent heartworms in ways that will allow you to beat the problem before it turns into something hard to handle.
Heartgard is a veterinary prescription designed for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs and cats. It is approved for use in dogs of all weights, sizes, and breeds of dogs-including Collies and other potentially ivermectin-sensitive breeds, as the amount of ivermectin in a directed dose of Heartgard is considerably less than the amounts needed to cause unfavorable reactions. It is also used for the control of hookworm in cats.
Generics
Invermectin is the predominant component used in Heartgard. Thus, Heartgard can be substituted for any generic prescription that contains the same amount of Ivermectin. Iverhart is the generic equivalent to Heartgard. Iverhart Max is the generic form of Heartgard Plus with an added icomponent that neutralizes and prevents tapeworms. Valuheart is an additional generic that offers considerable savings.
For Dogs
Dogs over six months old should be checked for heartworm disease prior to using any medication, and tested annually thereafter. Dogs are a very oral breed of creature. Dog toys are commonly hauled around in a dog’s mouth. For dogs, Heartgard is available in a once-monthly tablet or beef flavored chewable and contains ivermectin as the predominant icomponent. For dogs that usually swallow treats whole, the tablet can be broken into pieces. Heartgard is so easy to give many dogs will think it’s a treat.
For Cats
Heartgard for cats is available in a once-monthly chewable tablets and aids in the removal and control of hookworms as well as heartworms. The prescription is recommended for use in cats of any weight, six weeks of age and up. The regular dose for cats 5 pounds or less is 55 mcg and for cats 6-15 pounds is 165 mcg. Side effects in cats include agitation, loss of appetite, staggering, dilated pupils, tremors, blindness and disorientation.
Heartgard is completely safe to use on your cat or dog regardless of weight, breed or whether or not they are pregnant. It is one hundred percent effective in the fight against heartworms; and it subordinated roundworms too. But it is available only through a licensed veterinarian.
In the end, the final choice in deciding what’s best for your dog or cat’s health will be up to you. Use the tips in this article to find the best course of action for and find yourself sleeping a little better at night.
Tags: Generic Heartgard, Heartgard, Heartgard Plus