Lungworm threat to cats and dogs

Although lungworm disease occurs in both dogs and cats, different types of roundworms are responsible. The canine lungworm, Angiostrongylus vasorum, lives not in the lung tissue itself but in the blood vessels around the lungs and sometimes in the heart. The common feline lungworm, Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, lives in the air spaces in the lung tissue.

Both of these worms spend a stage in their development within a slug, snail or other mollusc and in the case of the cat, this creature will then be ingested by a bird or small mammal before being eaten, in turn, by the cat.

Many cats may never show signs of the infestation and can develop immunity, although whilst this immunity is developing the lungs of an affected cat can be literally riddled with worms, larvae and worm eggs. When they do occur, signs such as severe coughing and laboured breathing can come on very quickly.

Often, signs in dogs can be non-specific such as lethargy, occasional vomiting and weight loss. This can sometimes progress to coughing, difficulty breathing and inability to exercise. Blood clotting problems can also occur as can spinal pain or paralysis, followed by fits.

These potentially life threatening scenarios are entirely preventable by the use of a monthly applied, spot-on treatment available at your veterinary surgery. If you notice any of the symptoms described or if it seems your dog or cat may be at risk, please talk to your vet.

At Castle Vets we have advice and support for owners in our free nurse clinics and over the phone. We also have free to download PDF advice sheets about canine lungworm and feline lungworm.