Vets expect heartworm epidemic this year - KYTX CBS 19 Tyler Longview News Weather Sports

Vets expect heartworm epidemic this year

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A health alert tonight for man's best friend.

This year, vets in Texas predict this could be one of the worst years for heartworm disease.

Studies find that Texas ranks in the top ten in heartworm infections.

When the dog or cat is bitten, the mosquito larvae moves to the heart, where parasitic worms can grow almost a foot long.

"They'll attack us," says a concerned pet owner. "It sounds dramatic but they are very, very bad this year."

Symptoms include cough, lethargy and difficulty breathing.

Vets say prevention is key, especially for cats because there is no safe treatment option.

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