Coughing, difficulty exercising, weakness or changes in breathing can be signs of heart disease. Although heart problems are found more often in older pets, these conditions can affect pets at any age. Heart disease can be a life-threatening condition, however early diagnosis and appropriate therapy can extend your pet’s life and improve their quality of life.
Heart disease can lead to congestive heart failure (CHF), which occurs when the heart can no longer pump blood effectively. If an animal is suffering from CHF, fluid usually accumulates in and around the lungs and sometimes in the abdomen. Congenital heart disease (animals born with a heart problem), valvular heart disease (abnormalities of the heart valves), arrhythmias (rhythm disturbances), and heartworm disease can all lead to CHF.
We can discover many heart problems during a routine physical exam. Additional tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), radiographs (x-rays), and ultrasounds, are often needed to accurately identify the cause of the heart disease or failure. Medications are used to control clinical signs and improve heart function, and in some cases extend life. Call us at (250)-545-8200 if your pet starts breathing rapidly or coughing, loses his or her appetite, tires easily, seems weak, or has trouble exercising.