What is occult heart worm?

Occult heartworm disease refers to a situation in which a dog is infected with heartworms but shows no clinical symptoms and may test negative on standard heartworm tests. This can occur when there are not enough adult heartworms present to trigger a detectable immune response or when the dog’s immune system eliminates the microfilariae, the larval stage of the heartworms. It's important for pet owners to maintain regular testing and preventive measures, as occult infections can still lead to serious health issues over time. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and management.