– By Dr. Kerry Kores –
Heart Health in Purebred Dogs and Cats
Do you have a purebred dog or cat? Did you know they are predisposed to having heart disease?
Canine breeds such as King Charles Cavalier Spaniels, mini to medium-sized Poodles, Chihuahuas, Maltese, and other small breed dogs are more likely to develop Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease or Chronic Valvular Degeneration (MMVD, CVD).
Large breed dogs like Rottweilers, Boxers, and Dobermans are more likely to develop Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) and arrhythmia diseases.
Feline breeds such as Ragdolls, Sphynx cats, and Maine Coons are predisposed to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM, HOCM).
How to Screen for Heart Disease
It is best to screen these breeds for heart disease with a thorough physical exam by your veterinarian at Vickery Place Animal Hospital to check for a heart murmur or arrhythmia.
A simple blood test called an NT-proBNP can measure an amino-acid that is released when there is a stretch on the heart muscle. If this is elevated, it could be an indication that your pet has an underlying heart disease.
If this NT-proBNP test is normal, then it is unlikely that your pet has an underlying significant cardiac disease. In this case, your veterinarian will recommend routine check-ups to maintain heart health.
This includes:
- Keeping physical exams, vaccinations, and parasite prevention up to date
- Providing omega fatty acids supplements
- Ensuring a nutrient-rich, balanced diet — especially for purebred pets predisposed to heart issues
Some other testing that may be recommended for wellness or if your pet’s proBNP is elevated is a CBC/Serum Biochem/Electrolytes and thyroid panel, blood pressure evaluation, thoracic radiographs (chest x-ray), and ECG/EKG.
The Role of Echocardiograms and Ongoing Monitoring
For complete evaluation and diagnosis of heart disease, an echocardiogram — a painless ultrasound is used to evaluate heart muscle thickness and the size of the cardiac chambers.
This diagnostic is non-invasive and is the best way to determine if your pet has heart disease and what type.
If your veterinarian diagnoses heart disease, they will recommend monitoring with follow-up exams and diagnostics every 6-9 to 12 months with or without medications to help treat and hopefully delay the progression of your furbabies’ heart disease.
Your veterinarian at Vickery Place Animal Hospital is your best source to answer any questions you may have about heart disease in your pet. Some other good resources are the Cardiac Education Group and the Heart2Heart app.
If you’re concerned about your pet’s heart health, schedule a check-up with us today!