Heart Diseases in Dogs and Cats , Heart Problems in Pets
One of the leading causes of death for both men and women is heart disease. Animal owners should also be worried about heart problems in pets. The heart is a complex organ, and it is important to be aware of the possible heart diseases in dogs and cats and what you should look for so that you’re pet can have the best possible care.
Heart diseases in dogs and cats can be present at birth or developed later in life. Some of the heart problems in pets are similar to the cardiac diseases we see in people that result in heart failure. Even if there are no known heart problems in pets you own it is still very important you take them to a veterinary regularly. A good example is high blood pressure which they may acquire later in life so it is crucial your vet check for heart diseases in dogs and cats.
Symptoms and Treatment
Some symptoms of signs of heart diseases in dogs and cats may include coughing, increased breathing rate or difficulty breathing, fainting or a decrease in activity level. These heart problems in pets are easy to find during a veterinarian examination. To diagnose the cause of particular heart problems in pets and to find the most suitable therapy diagnostic testing is required. Testing may include a combination of x-rays, heart ultrasound, electrocardiogram and checking blood pressure.
Treatment for heart disease in dogs and cats include a combination of medications and changes to their diet. Quit often puppies that are diagnosed with problems in the heart can be treated with simple procedures that use small incisions and catheters.
Common Problem
Heartworms transmitted by mosquitoes are another common problem in dogs and cats. This is the only one of the heart diseases in dogs and cats that can be prevented by giving them a monthly pill or liquid placed on the back of the neck. It is possible to treat heartworms but it is much more costly then using monthly prevention.