Many pet owners mistakenly believe that unless their pet is predisposed to heart conditions or entering their senior years, cardiac health isn't an immediate concern. The truth is that heart disease and other cardiac-related conditions can affect any pet at any time in their life. This is why it's so important for pet owners to understand that how they care for their pet throughout their entire life can greatly impact the health of their heart and either prevent or encourage the development of heart issues.
To help pet owners better understand what factors and aspects of a pet's health contribute to a healthy heart, I'll be breaking down what heart concerns pet owners should be aware of, and how they can love on their pet's heart and cardiac health a little extra to pave the way for many more happy years together.
Understanding Heart Disease in Pets
While both cats and dogs can be affected by cardiologic health issues, there are a few differences in what each species experiences and can be predisposed to.
Cardiac Diseases in Cats
Most commonly, cats are affected by Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a progressive condition in which the walls of the heart's left ventricle thicken, thus causing obstructions in regular blood flow and a number of other complications like blood clots. Maine Coon cats, as well as Ragdolls, Sphynx, British Shorthair, and Persians, are predisposed to HCM due to their genetic makeup and a mutation that a number of cats have.
Cats who are affected by HCM often do not present any clinic signs and owners may not even be aware that their cat is ill. Alternatively, other cats may demonstrate signs of congestive heart failure, including rapid or labored breathing, open-mouthed breathing or panting, and lethargy. In rare cases, cats with HCM are at risk for sudden death, making early detection and management of the condition crucial for better prognosis and health outcomes.
Cats who are deficient in taurine can also suffer from Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), a cardiac condition that occurs when the heart muscles weaken and thin, inhibiting the heart's ability to effectively pump blood throughout the body. Because DCM in cats is primarily caused by taurine deficiency, it is most commonly seen in cats that are either taurine non-responsive or in those who eat non-commercial diets, which include vegetarian diets and diets consisting of home-cooked foods. Unlike with HCM, cats with DCM will more commonly present symptoms typically consisting of severe respiratory symptoms. The prognosis for cats with DCM depends on their response to taurine, as well as how the disease has progressed, so veterinarian intervention is essential as soon as owners suspect any issues with their cat's health.
Cardiac Diseases in Dogs
Like cats, dogs can also be affected by DCM, although it is not as commonly related to taurine deficiency as it is in cases of DCM in cats. Large breed dogs are most commonly diagnosed with DCM, with Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, and Irish Wolfhounds often being the most affected due to their predisposition for the condition.
Small dog breeds, on the other hand, are more often likely to experience Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD) and Tricuspid Valve Disease (TVD). MMVD, the most common cardiovascular disease accounting for over 70% of all cardiac-related health cases, occurs when a dog's mitral values thicken and become distorted. This distortion prevents the valve from closing correctly, allowing blood to leak into the atrium. Chihuahuas and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels carry the highest risk of developing MMVD, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are more likely to develop this disease early in life than other dogs – research has shown that up to 90% of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels will develop MMVD by the age 10.
In TV, the heart's tricuspid valve is affected, and its malformation causes blood to enter the atrium, much like in MMVD. Research has shown that Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds are the two breeds that are primarily predisposed to the condition.
In cases of all of these cardiac diseases, veterinarians agree that early intervention can make a difference, and in many cases, improve the pet's prognosis. Be sure to alert your veterinarian to any changes in your pet's respiratory status, as well as energy levels, as these are often signs that something isn't quite right with their heart.
Diagnostic Tools & Treatment Options
When it comes to diagnosing heart disease in pets and other cardiac issues, veterinarians will commonly employ a number of techniques to observe heart function, both visually and audibly. These diagnostic techniques typically include:
- Auscultation (listening to the heart)
- X-rays and echocardiograms
- ECG screening and blood work
When it comes to treating heart disease in pets, treatment options and their viability will depend on the specific situation, including the type of cardiac issues that needs to be addressed, as well as its progression, and the overall health of the pet affected. Medications and lifestyle adjustments to improve heart function are most often the first things a veterinarian will employ to manage these diseases.
When to Start Monitoring Your Pet's Heart Health
Senior pets aren't the only ones at risk of heart disease; heart disease and other cardiac complications can develop at any stage of an animal's life. This risk of heart disease even in young pets makes regular monitoring of their heart health and function essential throughout their life – not just when they hit their golden years.
While research confirms that most cases of heart disease occur in older dogs and cats, puppies and kittens can be born with congenital heart defects that are present at birth and can impact their health for the rest of their lives. Patent ductus arteriosus, ventricular septal defects, and pulmonic or aortic stenosis are all real threats that younger pets can face, but can thankfully be detected early on in veterinary checkups and screenings.
As we discussed above, some breeds are more prone to heart disease, and pet owners should keep a closer eye on their pet's cardiac health throughout their life and make cardiac monitoring a regular part of their pet's health plan. Breeds predisposed to heart issues include:
- Cats:
- Maine Coons, Ragdolls, Sphynx, British Shorthair, and Persians (HCM risk)
- Dogs:
- Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, Irish Wolfhounds (DCM risk)
- Chihuahuas, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (MMVD risk)
- Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds (TVD risk)
For these breeds that carry a higher risk of developing heart disease and other cardiac issues, extra attention to preventive care and additional veterinary monitoring are highly encouraged.
Warning Signs of Heart Disease in Pets
Heart disease in pets can be difficult for pet owners to recognize because not all pets will immediately begin showing symptoms or signs that anything is amiss. However, there are a few early warning signs of heart disease that pet owners should be able to pick up on.
- Exercise Intolerance – If your pet becomes easily fatigued during walks or playtime, it could indicate reduced heart function. Dogs that once enjoyed long runs or energetic play sessions may slow down or stop frequently to rest. Cats may become less active or reluctant to jump onto furniture.
- Coughing or Abnormal Breathing – Persistent coughing, labored breathing, or panting at rest could be signs of fluid buildup in the lungs due to heart failure. This is especially concerning if the cough worsens at night or after activity.
- Collapse Episodes – Fainting or sudden weakness can occur when the heart struggles to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body. Pets with heart disease may experience brief episodes of collapse after exertion.
- Distended Belly (Late-Stage Symptom) – In advanced heart disease, fluid can accumulate in the abdomen (a condition known as ascites), leading to noticeable bloating. This is a sign that heart function has significantly declined and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Normal Aging vs. Heart Disease in Pets
As pets age, they naturally slow down. However, there are some distinct differences between normal aging and symptoms that could be related to heart disease.
For example, it's not uncommon for senior pets to spend more and more time sleeping during the day; however, they should still have a few bursts of energy and a good amount of enthusiasm for their favorite toys or treats. Pets affected by heart conditions may have no energy at all and seem indifferent to activities, toys, or treats that they typically love.
In addition to low energy, if your pet suddenly develops persistent lethargy, joint pain, or other symptoms that limit mobility, there's likely something wrong that goes beyond the typical aches and pains associated with an older body.
When trying to differentiate between normal symptoms of aging and symptoms of cardiac trouble, your veterinarian will be your greatest ally. Don't be afraid to mention your concerns during annual wellness exams, or if something has you especially worried, a call into their office or a quick visit will never hurt.
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