February is Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health—for both humans and pets! Heart disease is a common concern in dogs and cats, affecting their overall well-being and quality of life. As pet owners, understanding the signs, risk factors, and available diagnostic tools can help ensure early detection and appropriate treatment. North Vancouver Vet
Common Heart Diseases in Dogs and Cats
Heart disease in pets can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developing later in life). While some conditions are more common in dogs, others are frequently seen in cats. North Vancouver Vet
Heart Disease in Dogs
Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease (DMVD) – The most common heart condition in older, small-breed dogs. The mitral valve degenerates over time, leading to a backward flow of blood, heart enlargement, and eventual congestive heart failure.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) and Diet Considerations – More common in large and giant breeds, DCM causes the heart muscle to weaken and stretch, impairing its ability to pump blood effectively. While certain breeds have a genetic predisposition to DCM, recent studies have raised concerns about a potential link between grain-free diets and the development of this disease.
The FDA and veterinary cardiologists have investigated cases where dogs on grain-free or boutique diets—often containing peas, lentils, pulses, and potatoes as primary ingredients—developed non-genetic DCM. While the exact cause is still under research, taurine deficiency has been suggested as a potential factor. Taurine, an amino acid crucial for heart health, is naturally found in animal proteins, and its deficiency has been associated with DCM in some dogs.
Diet Recommendations for Heart Health:
Avoid grain-free diets and those containing peas, lentils, pulses, or potatoes as main ingredients (listed within the first 10 ingredients).
Transition to a balanced diet formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists. Recommended brands include Hill's, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan.
Consult your veterinarian for personalized dietary guidance. We can provide additional resources, including an article from the FDA report on this issue.
Congenital Heart Defects – These include conditions like patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and pulmonic stenosis, which affect the heart’s function from birth.
Endocarditis – A bacterial infection affecting the heart valves, often linked to periodontal disease or bloodstream infections.
Pericardial Effusion – The accumulation of fluid around the heart, which can lead to compression and reduced heart function.
Heartworm Disease – Caused by mosquito-borne parasites that reside in the heart and pulmonary arteries, leading to heart failure if untreated.
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Heart Disease in Cats
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) – The most prevalent heart condition in cats, HCM causes the heart muscle to thicken, reducing its ability to pump blood properly.
Restrictive and Dilated Cardiomyopathy – Less common but still seen in some cats, these conditions affect the heart’s ability to contract and relax efficiently.
Heartworm Disease – While more common in dogs, heartworm infection can also affect cats, leading to heart and lung damage.
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Clinical Symptoms of Heart Disease
Heart disease can be challenging to detect early, as some pets may not show obvious symptoms until the disease has progressed. However, there are key signs to watch for:
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Signs in Dogs:
Coughing, especially at night or after activity
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Fatigue or reluctance to exercise
Fainting or collapsing episodes
Distended abdomen due to fluid buildup (ascites)
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Signs in Cats:
Rapid or labored breathing
Lethargy and hiding behavior
Weakness or sudden collapse
Hind limb paralysis (a sign of blood clots, often associated with HCM)
Decreased appetite or weight loss
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Diagnostic Tools for Heart Disease
Early detection and proper diagnosis are essential for managing heart disease in pets. Veterinarians use several diagnostic tools to evaluate heart health:
Auscultation – Listening to the heart with a stethoscope to detect murmurs or abnormal rhythms.
X-rays (Radiographs) – Assessing heart size and fluid buildup in the lungs.
Echocardiography (Ultrasound of the Heart) – Providing detailed images of the heart’s structure and function.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Evaluating heart rhythm abnormalities.
Blood Tests (ProBNP and Troponin Levels) – Detecting markers of heart disease.
Blood Pressure Measurement – Identifying hypertension, which can contribute to heart disease.
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Managing Heart Disease in Pets
While heart disease cannot always be cured, it can often be managed effectively with medications, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes. Common treatments include:
Medications such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers to help manage symptoms and improve heart function.
Weight management and exercise moderation to reduce strain on the heart.
Regular veterinary check-ups to monitor disease progression and adjust treatment as needed.
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Conclusion
Heart disease is a serious but manageable condition in both dogs and cats. By recognizing the signs and seeking timely veterinary care, pet owners can help their furry companions live longer, healthier lives. If you notice any symptoms of heart disease in your pet, schedule a consultation with your veterinarian. At Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive cardiac care for your pets. North Vancouver Vet
This Heart Month, take a moment to prioritize your pet’s heart health—because a healthy heart means a happy pet! North Vancouver Vet