Warmer Weather Reminds Cat Owners to Protect Aga...( More than a third of cats have not...),Health

More than a third of cats have not seen a vet in the past year though

internal parasite risks run high

SHAWNEE, Kan., May 21 /PRNewswire/ -- As seasons shift and spring's warmer weather brings beautiful blooming flowers, it also brings the increased risk of infection of worms, such as heartworms, hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms, that harm pets year-round. While many dog owners are aware of the risks, U.S. cat lovers may not realize protection against heartworms and other parasites in their feline friends is just as important(1). According to a recent survey by the American Pet Product Manufacturers Association (APPMA), more than a third of the 90 million cats in the U.S. have not seen a veterinarian in the past year(2). The statistic is staggering considering consumers need to be aware of the simple steps available to protect felines from common, year-round, and potentially deadly parasites like heartworms(1).

In response to the consumer need for increased awareness of the risks of feline heartworm disease, Bayer Animal Health has added new information to its Web site about the risks posed by worms and tips to help protect cats. The Web site, created especially for pet owners, http://www.petparents.com, includes an interactive section that allows cat owners to uncover parasite risks in their own homes and backyards from a cat's point-of-view.

"The APPMA survey results should be considered a wake-up call to cat owners," said Dr. Marty Becker, nationally recognized veterinarian, author, and media personality. "Even cats who never go outdoors are at risk. As the temperature warms outside and people open doors and windows, mosquitoes can come in, and transmit potentially fatal heartworms to your cat. This is just one of many common risks around a typical home."

Veterinarians, like Becker, say monthly preventive medications remain the best way to protect a
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