Your pet’s heart plays a vital role in keeping them healthy and active. But just like humans, pets can develop heart issues—many of which start subtly and worsen over time. Recognizing early warning signs is one of the best ways to protect your pet’s long-term health. With today’s advanced veterinary cardiology, pets with heart disease can often live comfortable, happy lives when diagnosed and treated early.
Below are the most common signs of heart trouble in pets and how cardiology can help.
1. Persistent Coughing or Wheezing
A cough that won’t go away—especially one that appears at night or after activity—may signal more than a respiratory issue. Heart disease can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs, causing coughing, wheezing, or noisy breathing.
How Cardiology Helps
A veterinary cardiologist may perform an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) to check heart function and look for fluid around the lungs. Treatment often includes medications that reduce fluid buildup and improve the heart’s pumping ability.
2. Fatigue or Reduced Activity
If your pet seems to lose stamina or tires much faster than usual, their heart may not be pumping efficiently. Pets with heart issues often avoid activities they once enjoyed—like running, playing, or climbing stairs.
How Cardiology Helps
Through exams and diagnostics, a cardiologist can identify conditions such as heart murmurs, arrhythmias, or structural abnormalities. Treatment may include heart medications or activity recommendations tailored to protect your pet’s health.
3. Swelling in the Abdomen or Legs
Heart failure can cause fluid to accumulate in the abdomen (a condition called ascites) or in the limbs. You might notice a rounder belly, swelling, or discomfort.
How Cardiology Helps
X-rays, ultrasounds, or bloodwork help determine whether the swelling is related to heart disease. Diuretics or other medications are commonly prescribed to reduce fluid retention and ease strain on the heart.
4. Rapid or Difficult Breathing
Fast breathing at rest or noticeable effort with each breath is a red flag. When the heart struggles to deliver oxygen-rich blood, the respiratory system tries to compensate.
How Cardiology Helps
Chest X-rays and echocardiograms allow cardiologists to assess heart size and function and check for fluid in the lungs. Treatment may include medications to relax blood vessels, improve heart function, or relieve respiratory distress.
5. Fainting or Collapsing
Sudden collapse or fainting (called syncope) can occur when the brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen due to poor heart performance or abnormal rhythms.
How Cardiology Helps
An electrocardiogram (ECG) helps identify arrhythmias that may be interrupting blood flow. Medications or long-term management plans can help stabilize heart rhythm and reduce fainting episodes.
6. Loss of Appetite or Weight Loss
Some pets with heart disease eat less or lose weight unintentionally. This can be due to fluid buildup, nausea, or the added strain the heart places on the body.
How Cardiology Helps
Blood tests and imaging help determine whether heart disease is affecting your pet’s digestion or appetite. Treatment may involve diuretics, appetite support, or dietary adjustments designed for cardiac health.
7. Faster-Than-Normal Heart Rate
A racing heart or irregular pulse can indicate that the heart is working harder than it should. This may occur with arrhythmias or other cardiovascular conditions.
How Cardiology Helps
Using an ECG, a cardiologist can pinpoint the cause of an elevated heart rate. Beta-blockers or other heart medications may be prescribed to regulate rhythm and reduce stress on the heart.
How Veterinary Cardiology Supports Your Pet
Today’s cardiac care for pets includes a variety of advanced diagnostic tools such as:
• Echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart)
• Electrocardiography (ECG)
• Chest X-rays
• Blood pressure monitoring
• Blood tests to assess organ function
Once a diagnosis is made, treatment may include:
• Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup
• ACE inhibitors to relax blood vessels
• Beta-blockers or anti-arrhythmic medications
• Special diets for heart health
• In rare cases, surgical procedures or pacemaker placement
Early intervention is key. Pets diagnosed in the early stages of heart disease often respond well to treatment and can enjoy many more years of comfort and activity.
Concerned About Your Pet’s Heart Health? We’re Here to Help.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs—or simply want peace of mind—Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic is here to support you. Our team is committed to early detection, thorough diagnostics, and compassionate care to help your pet live their best life.
📞 Call us at 303-779-1170 to schedule a heart health evaluation today.