Like us, pets can be affected by heart (cardiovascular) disease. Although we can’t prevent or cure most types of heart disease in pets, we can help improve heart function and quality of life in dogs and cats with the disease. The earlier we can diagnose it, the better.
What is Heart Disease?
Heart disease is a term that encompasses many different types of problems or conditions related to the heart. Most types of heart disease are associated with a leaky heart valve or weakening or thickening of the heart muscle, eventually resulting in an enlarged heart.
Heart disease tends to worsen over time. Pets with heart disease may end up with congestive heart failure, a condition in which the heart can no longer pump blood effectively, causing fluid to build up in the chest or abdomen.
Fortunately, heart disease (and even heart failure) is manageable. Pets who are identified early in the disease usually have a better outcome than those who aren’t identified until the disease is more advanced.
Detecting heart disease before clinical signs are obvious can help keep your pet healthier for longer and may even help your pet live longer.
What Are Signs of Heart Disease in Pets?
The first sign of heart disease in dogs is often a heart murmur, usually noted during a veterinary exam and typically present months or even years before other clinical signs are obvious. Cats, on the other hand, may have advanced heart disease with no murmur.
Other symptoms of heart disease or failure that pet owners might notice include:
- Abdominal swelling
- Coughing
- Difficulty, noisy, or rapid breathing
- Exercise intolerance (reluctance or inability to exercise)
- Fainting/collapse
- Lack of energy
- Loss of appetite and/or weight
- Rapid heart rate
- Weakness
What Causes Heart Disease in Pets?
Several conditions can make pets more prone to developing heart disease. Age and breed are the most common, but being overweight can play a role as well. Heartworm disease can also be a factor in heart disease.
What Pets Are at Risk for Heart Disease?
Heart disease in pets is often genetic. That’s why certain types of heart disease are more common in certain breeds or species. For instance:
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) tends to affect specific breeds as they reach middle or older age. These are typically large and giant breeds, such as Boxers, Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, and Newfoundlands, as well as Cocker Spaniels. But certain diets may now be causing DCM in breeds that aren’t usually affected.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the most frequently diagnosed heart disease in cats, is common in Maine Coons and Ragdolls.
- Mitral valve disease (MVD), also referred to as degenerative valve disease, affects many smaller dogs as they age. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Dachshunds are predisposed to getting MVD, which is the most common type of heart disease in dogs. MVD is rarely diagnosed in cats.
It’s important to note that any dog or cat, regardless of breed or size, can develop heart disease.
How Can Your Jacksonville Vet Help?
Regular wellness exams play a crucial role in detecting heart disease. However, if you notice signs of heart disease in your pet, don’t wait for your pet’s next wellness exam. Contact us right away.
Early detection and proper treatment can help significantly improve your pet’s quality of life and possibly even how long your pet will live. Your Jacksonville veterinarian will recommend the best treatment options to help your pet with heart disease.
