Heartworm in Ferrets

Dirofilaria immitis Parasite

Heartworm disease is a dangerous parasitic infection that is transmitted by mosquitoes. The worm, a Dirofilaria immitis parasite, lodges itself in the pulmonary artery of the ferret’s heart and grows, causing the organ to increase in size, high blood pressure and/or blood clots (much like in dogs). It may be seen in ferrets at any age, and is usually more common in tropical and semi-tropical zones. Also, infections consisting of very few worms (one to two adults) is sufficient enough to cause severe heart disease (and death) in ferrets.

• Symptoms and Types
• Causes
• Diagnosis
• Treatment
• Living and Management

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