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Heart Health Matters at Every Age
Heart problems are more common in older pets, but they can happen at any stage of life. Many heart conditions are serious, but if we find them early, we can often manage or even treat them to give your pet more healthy years.
Our veterinarians check for signs of heart disease during routine exams. If we notice anything unusual, we may recommend further testing like X-rays, ultrasounds, or an electrocardiogram (ECG) to better understand your pet’s heart health.
Early diagnosis is key—some heart conditions can be treated successfully if detected in time.
Expert Cardiology Care for Pets
Dogs and cats can develop heart issues just like people do, and learning your pet has a heart condition can feel scary. At ourKirkwood location, you’re not alone—our skilled and compassionate team will walk you through every step of your pet’s care.
We’re proud to offer access to Board-Certified Specialists in Cardiology, Radiology, Internal Medicine, and Surgery to ensure your pet receives the best care possible. Whether it’s a routine check-up or more advanced cardiac support, we’re here to help your pet live a longer, healthier life.
Understanding Veterinary Cardiology
Veterinary cardiology focuses on spotting and treating heart and blood vessel issues in animals. Heart disease in cats and dogs can look different depending on the type and severity. Here are a few of the most common heart problems we see:
- Heart Murmurs – Extra or unusual sounds in the heart that may be harmless or a sign of a deeper issue.
- Congestive Heart Failure – When the heart can’t pump well, it can cause fluid to build up in the lungs or belly.
- Arrhythmias – Irregular heartbeats that can affect how the heart works.
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) – A condition where the heart becomes enlarged and weak.
- Valvular Disease – Issues with the heart’s valves that may lead to more serious complications.
Signs Your Pet May Have a Heart Problem
Catching heart issues early can help your pet live a healthier life. Watch for these signs and call us if you notice any:
- Coughing or wheezing that doesn’t go away
- Heavy or fast breathing
- Unusual tiredness or low energy
- Fainting or collapsing
- Swelling in the belly
The sooner we see your pet, the better we can help manage or treat the problem.
How We Detect Heart Conditions
When you bring your pet in for a heart health assessment, we conduct a thorough examination that may involve:
- Stethoscope Exam – We listen closely for heart murmurs or other sounds.
- X-rays – To see the size and shape of the heart and look for fluid buildup.
- Ultrasound (Echocardiogram) – To get a clear picture of how the heart is working.
- ECG (Electrocardiogram) – To check for abnormal rhythms in the heartbeat.
How We Treat Heart Conditions in Pets
Once we diagnose your pet’s heart issue, our team will create a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs. Treatment often includes a mix of medication, lifestyle changes, and sometimes advanced care.
Medications We May Prescribe
Depending on your pet’s condition, we might recommend one or more of the following:
- Diuretics – Help remove extra fluid from the body.
- ACE Inhibitors – Lower blood pressure and reduce the heart’s workload.
- Beta-Blockers – Help control heart rate.
- Pimobendan – Improves how the heart pumps and supports better blood flow.
Lifestyle Support and Monitoring
We may also suggest changes to help your pet stay as healthy as possible:
- Low-sodium diets to manage fluid retention
- Light exercise based on your pet’s condition
- Regular checkups to monitor progress and adjust care as needed
Advanced Care and Procedures
Some pets may need additional support:
- Fluid Drainage – If fluid builds up in the chest or belly, we may perform a procedure to drain it.
- Surgery – Rarely, some pets may need heart surgery or a pacemaker.
- Oxygen Therapy – For pets with trouble breathing, we may use oxygen to help them feel better.
- Referral to a Specialist – For complex cases, we may recommend a visit to a veterinary cardiologist for advanced treatments like catheter procedures or defibrillator therapy.
We're Here for You and Your Pet
Hearing that your pet has a heart problem can be tough—but many pets do very well with the right care. With early diagnosis and ongoing treatment, your pet can still enjoy a full and happy life. Think your pet may have a heart issue? Call us today or book an appointment online—we’re here to help.