What Is It: Although pets cannot get heart attacks, they can suffer a series of other equally serious heart conditions. Chronic valvular heart disease (VHD) is the most common heart condition in older dogs. In VHD, the heart valves thicken, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively, and causing accumulation of fluid in the lungs. Of the many types of heart disease to affect older pets, some are quite manageable if diagnosed early and treated with aggressive drugs and dietary changes, while others are very hard to treat. Early detection of heart disease is crucial to save your pet's life.
High blood
pressure is also common in older pets (especially cats) and it's often
associated with kidney disease.
Symptoms: Weakness, loss of appetite, coughing or labored breathing,
syncope (fainting), enlarged abdomen, tachycardia. Sometimes a venous pulse
becomes palpable. Symptoms in cats usually do not show until the disease is
well advanced. EKG's, x-rays, and ultrasounds done as part of routine care can
show heart disease signs, such as enlargement of the chambers, thickening of
the walls, or stretched muscles.
Treatment: Diuretics are used to remove pooled fluid from the body, a common occurrence when the heart cannot pump efficiently. Other drugs are prescribed to increase heart strength and/or contractility, and reestablish normal heart rhythm. Beta blockers and ACE inhibitors are also used. A diet low in sodium can help considerably.
The information provided
in these pet care stories is for general informational purposes only and is not
intended to replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always consult a licensed veterinarian or a qualified pet care professional
regarding your pet's specific health, behavior, or dietary needs.