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Can my indoor cat catch heartworm from a dog on heartworm treatment?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Female | spayed | 12 lbs

The dog we want to adopt is on medicine to treat heartworm. We have an indoor cat who is not on heartworm preventative medication. Is our cat at risk for heartworm if we adopt the dog and bring him into our home while he is still on medication to treat his heartworm?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

Published on April 22nd, 2017

Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes. So, your dog will not infect the cat. However, if your cat is indoor and outdoor, she is at risk of contracting heartworms if she is not currently taking prevention.

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