A Matter of the Heart: Protecting Your Pet’s Heart Health

Admin Team
Dog and cat snuggled up sleeping with red crochet heart

Why Heart Health Matters for Pets (and the Common Signs of Heart Disease)

Valentine’s Day is all about love and for many of us, that love includes our pets. One of the best ways to show them how much we care is by protecting their health, starting with their heart.


Heart disease is more common in pets than many owners realise, especially as dogs and cats get older. Understanding why heart health matters and knowing the early warning signs can make a meaningful difference to your pet’s comfort, longevity and quality of life.

 

Why Is Heart Health So Important?

Your pet’s heart works tirelessly every day, pumping oxygen-rich blood around the body to support vital organs like the brain, lungs and kidneys. When the heart isn’t working as it should, the effects can be felt throughout the entire body.


Heart disease in pets is often progressive, meaning it can worsen over time. While some conditions can’t be cured, many can be effectively managed when caught early. With early diagnosis, monitoring and treatment, pets with heart disease can continue to enjoy a happy, active life - a gift of love that lasts far beyond Valentine’s Day.


Common Types of Heart Disease in Pets

·     Heart valve disease – most common in small to medium dog breeds

·     Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) – more common in large dog breeds

·     Congenital heart disease – present from birth

·     Cardiomyopathy in cats – often subtle and harder to detect early


Some pets are born with heart conditions, while others develop them later in life.


Common Signs of Heart Disease in Dogs and Cats

Heart disease can be difficult to spot early, as signs often develop gradually. Many pets seem perfectly normal in the early stages.

Watch for these possible signs:


Changes in breathing

·     Rapid or laboured breathing

·     Breathing harder at rest or while sleeping

·     Coughing, especially at night or after exercise (more common in dogs)


Reduced energy or stamina

·     Getting tired more easily on walks

·     Reluctance to play or exercise

·     General lethargy


Changes in appetite or weight

·     Decreased appetite

·     Unexplained weight loss


Fluid build-up or swelling

·     Swollen abdomen

·     Fluid accumulation in the chest or belly


Collapse or fainting

·     Sudden weakness

·     Collapse or fainting episodes (a more serious sign)


Cats, in particular, are experts at hiding illness. Small changes in behaviour, breathing or appetite can be early indicators that something isn’t quite right.


How Heart Disease Is Diagnosed

Often, early signs of heart disease are detected during routine health checks. Your vet may:

·     Hear a heart murmur or abnormal rhythm

·     Notice changes in breathing or lung sounds


Additional tests may include:

·     Chest X-rays

·     Blood tests

·     Blood pressure monitoring

·     ECG or heart ultrasound (echocardiogram)


Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before more serious complications develop.


Showing Your Pet Some Heart This Valentine’s Day 💗

Valentine’s Day treats and cuddles are wonderful, but one of the most meaningful ways to show love is through preventative care.

You can support your pet’s heart health by:


·     Booking regular veterinary check-ups

·     Monitoring breathing and activity levels at home

·     Maintaining a healthy weight and diet

·     Following your vet’s treatment plan if a heart condition is diagnosed


When to See a Vet

Noticing changes in your pet’s behaviour or breathing? Early checks can make a real difference. Get in touch with our team to book an appointment or discuss your pet’s heart health. This Valentine’s Day, give your pet a gift that truly comes from the heart - proactive care, early detection and ongoing love.

 


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