Heart Disease

The most common form of heart disease in older pets is congestive heart failure. This may be the result of injury to the heart, a valve that no longer functions properly or deterioration of the heart muscle itself. The end result is a heart that works too hard and pumps too little.

Normal reflexes in the body compensate for a failing heart. These responses include an elevated heart rate, constriction of small blood vessels, the retention of sodium and an increased thirst. All these things are helpful to the body at first. Over time, however, these responses promote the decline of the heart by making it work harder against increased pressure.

Signs a pet may show if suffering from heart disease are poor appetite, weight loss, cough (especially in the mornings or after exercise), labored breathing or a general loss of spirit.

Diagnosis of heart disease is based upon physical exam, lab data, chest x-rays, ECG and in some cases echocardiography. Each animal will be different and the diagnostic process tailored to each pet and family.

Management of heart failure is aimed at decreasing the workload on the heart and helping it be more efficient. Drug therapy that may be indicated is:

· Diuretic - curbs sodium retention which helps remove edema. (Edema is excessive water accumulation. It occurs in the lungs and other locations in the body).

· Blood vessel dilator - decreases blood pressure and makes it easier for the heart to pump. These drugs also make the heart muscle contract stronger and use less oxygen.

· Anti-arrhythmia drugs - controls irregular rhythms

Aside from medications, other changes that assist in managing a heart patient are diet, weight loss and exercise. Like humans, pets can benefit from low sodium diets, weight loss and controlled activity.

The prognosis for pets with heart failure varies widely. Some will do well for years, while others decline rapidly despite therapy.