10 Signs of Heart Disease in Dogs and Cats

1. Persistent cough*
2. Difficulty breathing*
3. Fainting/collapsing*
4. Abdominal swelling/distention*
5. Less tolerance to excercise
6. Heart murmur
7. Change in heart rate
8. Change in body weight
9. Restless or hiding
10. Loss of appetite

* signs that should always warrant a visit to the vet

Valvular disease affects

• 10% of dogs ages 5-8
• 20-25% of dogs ages 9-12
• 30-35% of dogs ages 13+

Heart disease usually strikes cats around 4-6 years of age, but the symptoms can be found in a cat of any age.

6 Different Kinds of Heart Disease

• Valvular disease: Abdominal heart valves leading to heart enlargement
• Myocardial disease: Heart muscle becomes weak or thick
• Arrhythmias: Condition that causes irregular heartbeat.
• Pericardial Disease: Protective sac around heart fills with fluid.
• Heartworm Disease: Heartworm infection damages heart, lungs, and arteries.
• Congenital Disease: Born with a malformed heart that can lead to progressive heart enlargement.

Did you know?

Patients with congestive heart failure live 75% longer when co-managed by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist and primary care veterinarian.

If you suspect that your pet may be showing signs of heart disease, please contact us to schedule a checkup.