Parasite Prevention

Protecting Your Pet from Internal & External Parasites

Parasites are a common risk for both dogs and cats in Oklahoma, and many pets will be exposed at some point in their lives. These parasites can cause anything from mild irritation to serious illness, and some can even be transmitted to people.

At Carter County Animal Hospital, we focus on prevention, early detection, and safe treatment to protect both your pet and your family year-round.

Year-Round Protection for Dogs

Dogs in our region are at risk for a variety of parasites, including fleas, ticks, intestinal worms, and heartworms. Many of these parasites are active year-round in Oklahoma, which is why we recommend consistent, monthly prevention rather than seasonal treatment.

Preventive medications help protect against:

• Heartworms (transmitted by mosquitoes)
• Intestinal parasites such as roundworms and hookworms
• Fleas and ticks, which can spread additional diseases

Because heartworm disease is serious, progressive, and potentially fatal, prevention is always the safest and most effective approach.

Heartworm Disease & Treatment

Heartworm disease is a serious condition that affects the heart and lungs and is transmitted by mosquitoes. Once a dog is infected, treatment is complex, costly, and requires strict activity restriction during recovery.

If a dog tests positive for heartworms, treatment is based on disease severity and may include:

• Prescription medication protocols
• Injectable therapy to eliminate adult heartworms
• X-rays and diagnostics to assess heart and lung damage
• Strict rest and follow-up testing during recovery

Our team follows established veterinary guidelines to ensure the safest possible treatment plan for each individual patient.

The good news: heartworm disease is completely preventable with consistent monthly medication.

Parasites in Cats: Often Hidden, Always Important

Cats, whether indoor or outdoor, are also at risk for parasites such as fleas, intestinal worms, and heartworms. Many parasites can go unnoticed until they begin affecting your cat’s overall health.

Even indoor cats can be exposed through mosquitoes, other pets, or contaminated environments, making prevention an important part of routine care.

Common Feline Parasites

Cats may be affected by:

• Fleas and ticks
• Roundworms and hookworms
• Heartworms (transmitted by mosquitoes)
• Ear mites and other external parasites

Some intestinal parasites can also be transmitted to people, which is why routine testing and prevention are recommended for all cats.

Prevention Is the Best Protection

The most effective way to protect your pet is through year-round preventive care. Regular parasite prevention helps:

• Reduce the risk of serious disease
• Prevent uncomfortable infestations
• Protect other pets in the home
• Lower long-term treatment costs
• Reduce zoonotic (pet-to-human) transmission risk

Our team can recommend the best prevention plan based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and risk factors.