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Signs & Symptoms of Canine Heart Disease

A healthy canine heart continuously cycles oxygenated blood to the organs and tissues in the body. Heart disease occurs when this cycle is interrupted by diseases, flaws and weaknesses that affect the heart. The symptoms of canine heart disease vary depending on the cause.

  1. Causes

    • Heart disease can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (appear later in life). Acquired heart disease is caused by the normal aging process, injury and inflammation.

    Common Symptoms

    • Lack of energy and exercise intolerance, excessive sleepiness, panting, weight loss, anorexia, a dry cough, bluish gums and a pot belly are common symptoms of canine heart disease.

    Specific Symptoms

    • Additional symptoms are specific to the area of the heart affected. Left-side involvement leads to fluid accumulation in the lungs and causes difficulty breathing. Right-side involvement causes fluid to build up in the abdomen and legs and leads to liver problems.

    Diagnosis

    • Your veterinarian may notice a heart murmur during a routine exam. Additional tests such as a blood chemistry panel, urinalysis, X-rays and an electrocardiogram will be performed.

    Treatment

    • Diruetics (furosimide, lasix) are prescribed to combat fluid accumulation.Vetmedin tablets are prescribed to improve cardiac function and widen blood vessels. Special diets and exercise may also be prescribed.

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