Heart problems

Pets can get a variety of heart diseases. They can be born with heart problems (congenital heart disease) or develop heart disease as they age. The problem can be due to one of the heart valves malfunctioning, infections or a problem with the heart muscle itself.

Symptoms will vary depending on the underlying problem - but commonly include:


Slowing down - an inability or lack of desire to exercise
Breathing heavy or being "short of breath" with normal activities
Coughing
Difficulty breathing
Many pets will lose weight
For information on a common heart disease, please read - Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs.

Several tests can be done to help determine the underlying problem. Some of the tests include (click on any of the links to find out more about that information):


General physical examination with emphasis on stethoscope examination (auscultation) of the heart and lungs
A chest radiograph (X-ray)
Measurement of blood pressure
An electrocardiogram (EKG)
Ultrasound examination of the heart ( echocardiogram)
If you see any of these signs in your dog - please call your veterinarian immediately.

Until next time,

Dr. Jon