Like humans, cats and dogs can develop heart disease. However, the causes and symptoms can differ significantly. Concerned pet owners will often have many questions for veterinarians when it comes to their companions’ heart health. To help you understand the risks, causes, and prevention techniques to keep your pet healthy, here are answers to a few of the questions many people have.

What to Know About Pet Heart Disease

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of heart disease can vary, and some pets may show no early signs at all. Symptoms are more likely to manifest as the condition progresses and the heart is unable to effectively pump blood throughout the body.

If your cat or dog is experiencing lethargy, excessive coughing, weight loss, fainting spells, swelling in the abdomen, or difficulties breathing or exercising, bring them to the animal hospital for an evaluation.

Can I prevent it?

In most cases, heart disease is not preventable in cats and dogs. Pets with congenital heart conditions were born with the defects. Aging is another common factor in adult-onset heart disease.

Injuries, infections, poor diet, and lack of exercise are often contributing risk factors, however. Keeping your pet active as they age, choosing organic and natural pet foods, and protecting them from traffic are helpful strategies.

Heartworms are also preventable sources of heart conditions. These parasites damage the host’s blood vessels and reduce the heart’s ability to pump, resulting in heart disease. Keeping your pet on preventative medication year-round helps protect them heartworms.

How is it diagnosed?

Even if the condition is asymptomatic, veterinarians diagnose heart disease during annual pet health exams. The vet will listen to the animal’s heart for irregular sounds and take their blood pressure.

If they notice abnormalities, they may order blood and urine tests, chest X-rays, ultrasounds, and electrocardiograms (EKGs). Once the tests confirm the diagnosis, your vet will begin discussing treatment options.

How do veterinarians treat heart conditions?

Treatment will depend upon the type and cause of the disease. Torn valves and some heart defects can be repaired through surgical intervention.

Veterinarians may also recommend medications that help reduce fluid accumulation, regulate heartbeat, and relax the heart muscle. A low-sodium diet may also help prevent fluid buildup. Although these options will not cure the condition, they will help your furry friend live a longer and relatively normal life.

Ensure your pet’s heart is healthy with regular visits to Cedarknoll Animal Hospital. Located in Montgomery, NY, this pet hospital goes above and beyond to provide your companion with the very best in veterinary medicine. With in-house diagnostic services, preventative care, and surgery options, these knowledgeable veterinarians are committed to helping pets live long and active lives. Visit their website for additional information about their services, or call (845) 361-5404 to schedule an appointment.