In Dogs
Valvular Disease (Degenerative Valve Disease / Mitral Valve Disease)
Most common in small and older dogs.
The heart valves weaken, causing blood to leak backward.
Breeds at risk: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Dachshund, Miniature Poodle.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
The heart muscle weakens and enlarges, reducing pumping strength.
More common in large breeds: Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Boxers.
Congenital Heart Defects
Present from birth (e.g., patent ductus arteriosus, pulmonic stenosis).
In Cats
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Thickening of the heart muscle, the most common feline heart disease.
Can lead to blood clots and heart failure.
Breeds at risk: Maine Coon, Ragdoll, British Shorthair.
Restrictive or Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Less common but can cause similar symptoms and complications.
Signs and Symptoms
Coughing (especially in dogs)
Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
Fatigue or exercise intolerance
Fainting or collapse
Weight loss
Swollen belly (fluid buildup)
Bluish or pale gums
Cats often hide symptoms, so sudden breathing difficulty or hind leg paralysis (due to blood clots) may be the first sign.
Diagnosis
Veterinarians may use:
Physical exam (listening for murmurs)
Chest X-rays
Echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart)
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Blood pressure measurement
Blood tests (e.g., NT-proBNP for cardiac stress)
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause but may include:
Medications to reduce fluid buildup (e.g., furosemide)
ACE inhibitors (enalapril, benazepril) to lower heart workload
Pimobendan (Vetmedin) to strengthen heart contractions
Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers for certain cardiomyopathies
Diet changes (low-sodium diets; taurine supplementation in some cases)
️ Home Care and Monitoring
Regular vet checkups and re-evaluations.
Monitor breathing rate at rest (normal <30 breaths/min for dogs and cats).
Keep stress and exertion low.
Maintain a healthy weight and avoid high-sodium foods.
Vetmedin is a prescription medication for dogs containing the active ingredient pimobendan, used to treat canine heart failure caused by conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD). It works by dilating blood vessels and increasing the strength of the heart's contractions, which reduces strain on the heart. Vetmedin can be prescribed in chewable tablets or a liquid oral solution and is often given twice daily, ideally on an empty stomach. Vetmedin is available as a chewable or a liquid.