The Prevalence of Feline Heartworm Disease in Hungary

Abstract

Feline heartworm disease (FHW), caused by the parasitic nematode Dirofilaria immitis, is an emerging health concern for cats, especially in regions where environmental conditions favor the proliferation of mosquito vectors. While research has extensively focused on canine heartworm disease, FHW remains both underdiagnosed and underreported in cats due to its often subtle and nonspecific clinical presentation, despite its potentially severe outcomes.