Wellness & Preventive Care
Heartworm Testing in Cedar Springs, MI
Heartworm disease is serious, but it is also very preventable. At Cedar Animal Hospital, we test for heartworm right here in our in-house laboratory, so you can get answers quickly and keep your pet’s prevention on track all year.
Understanding Heartworm Testing
Heartworms are parasites spread by mosquitoes. When an infected mosquito bites a pet, it can pass along tiny larvae that slowly grow into worms living in the heart, lungs, and nearby blood vessels. Over time, these worms can damage the heart and lungs and lead to lasting health problems. Dogs are the most common host, but cats can be infected too, and in cats even a small number of worms can cause serious illness.
Early heartworm infection usually causes no signs at all, which is why testing matters. A heartworm test is a simple blood test that checks for evidence of adult worms. We recommend testing dogs every year, even when they take a monthly preventive, because a missed or late dose, a pet who spits out a pill, or a gap in the summer can leave a window for infection. Testing also confirms that it’s safe to start or continue prevention. Because Michigan’s mosquito season can stretch from spring well into fall, year-round prevention is the simplest way to stay protected.
What to Expect During Heartworm Testing
Heartworm testing is quick and is often done during your pet’s regular wellness visit.
1. Reviewing Your Pet’s Prevention
We’ll ask which heartworm preventive your pet takes, how often it’s given, and whether any doses were missed. This helps us understand your pet’s risk and interpret the test results.
2. A Small Blood Sample
A team member collects a small amount of blood, usually from a leg or the neck. It only takes a moment, and most pets handle it well. Some procedures, like blood draws, take place in our treatment area rather than the exam room.
3. Testing in Our In-House Lab
Your pet’s sample is run in our own laboratory rather than being sent away. Results are often ready in less than an hour, so we can usually go over them before you leave.
4. Next Steps
If the test is negative, we’ll help you choose a preventive that fits your pet and your routine. If it’s positive, your veterinarian will explain what additional testing is needed, such as bloodwork or digital radiographs, and talk through a treatment plan.
Why Heartworm Testing Matters
Testing is a small step that protects your pet from a disease that is far easier to prevent than to treat.
Catching Infection Early
Pets with early heartworm infection often look perfectly healthy. A yearly test finds infection before it causes visible damage.
Safe Prevention
Testing before starting or restarting a preventive helps make sure your pet can take it safely.
Peace of Mind
Even the most careful owners occasionally miss a dose. A negative test confirms your pet’s prevention is working.
Signs of Heartworm Disease
As heartworm disease progresses, you may notice:
- A mild, persistent cough
- Getting tired easily during walks or play
- Reduced appetite or weight loss
- Labored or rapid breathing
- A swollen belly in advanced cases
- In cats, vomiting, coughing, or asthma-like episodes
If your pet shows any of these signs, call us to schedule an exam. If your pet suddenly has trouble breathing or collapses, call right away.
How Often Should My Pet Be Tested?
Most dogs should be tested once a year. Puppies, pets who missed doses, pets switching preventives, and newly adopted pets may need testing on a different schedule. Your veterinarian will recommend the right timing and talk with you about prevention for both dogs and cats.
Practice Highlights
- Full In-House Laboratory: Heartworm results often in less than an hour
- AAHA-Accredited: Meeting the American Animal Hospital Association’s standards for quality care
- Serving Pets Since 1993: Trusted by families from Cedar Springs and across West Michigan
- Complete Parasite Prevention: Heartworm, flea, and tick protection available through our in-house pharmacy
- Flexible Payment Options: Cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay
Schedule Your Pet's Heartworm Testing Today
Keep your pet’s heartworm protection up to date with a quick test at Cedar Animal Hospital. Call (616) 696-1212 to book, or visit us at 3705 Gentle Way, Cedar Springs, MI 49319, across the street from Meijer and behind Aldi.
Heartworm Testing: Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my dog need a heartworm test if they take a preventive?
No preventive works if a dose is missed, given late, or spit out. A yearly test confirms your dog’s prevention is working and that it’s safe to continue. It’s a quick blood test, often done during your pet’s wellness visit.
Can cats get heartworms?
Yes. Cats are less commonly infected than dogs, but heartworm disease can be very serious for them, and there is no approved treatment for cats. Prevention is the best protection. Ask your veterinarian which option is right for your cat.
How long does it take to get results?
We run heartworm tests in our own in-house laboratory, and results are often ready in less than an hour. That means we can usually discuss them with you during the same visit.
What happens if my pet tests positive?
Your veterinarian will recommend additional testing to understand how the infection is affecting your pet, then talk through a treatment plan. If you have questions about a positive result, call us at (616) 696-1212.
How much does heartworm testing cost?
The cost depends on whether the test is part of a wellness visit and whether other services are included. Please call (616) 696-1212 for an estimate.
