Heart Disease

Heart disease is commonly diagnosed in dogs and cats. Approximately ten percent of dogs in North America have heart disease. In older pets, our primary concern is acquired heart disease – valvular disease, arrhythmias, and cardiomyopathy. These lead to heart failure. Heart disease is diagnosed most often during the physical examination – feeling the pulse and listening to the heart and lungs with a stethoscope. Any abnormalities found need further workup, such as electrocardiogram (EKG), chest X-rays, and blood tests. Other special tests, such as an echocardiogram, may be necessary. Early in heart disease, there are usually no signs. As the disease progresses, signs include coughing, exercise intolerance, and weight loss. Some heart diseases are more common in certain breeds.

Various medications are used to treat the signs of heart disease in dogs and cats – ACE inhibitors (like enalapril), water pills (furosemide), and medications to open the airways (like theophylline), and other medications like calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers. Medications to strengthen heart muscle, such as digoxin, are now rarely used, as they are more toxic. Special diets are also used to treat heart disease, as are nutraceuticals such as

omega-3 fatty acid supplements. After your pet has been diagnosed with heart disease, and after medications are begun, periodic examinations and rechecks of blood tests, EKG, and X-rays may be necessary to monitor how your pet is responding to treatment.

If you have any questions about heart disease, or any concerns about your older pets’ health, please do not hesitate to contact us.