Just like humans, your pet is susceptible to developing cardiac problems. The heart plays such an important role that any problems can pose a threat to your pet’s life. To catch cardiac issues before they escalate, our hospital offers routine veterinary checkups. During our wellness exams, we use blood tests, X-rays and ultrasound to diagnose heart problems. If we discover heart issues we provide treatment that allows your pet to live the best life possible.
What are signs that my pet has heart problems?
Signs of cardiac disease in pets will manifest in different ways. Here are a few telltale signs that you can look for:
- Sudden weight loss
- Persistent cough
- Less energy
- Fainting
- Laboured breathing
If you notice any of these signs, you should reach out to a veterinarian immediately. Give us a call at 416-489-8387.
How does my pet develop heart issues?
Most pets develop cardiac problems due to their age, genetics and their lifestyle. For instance, overweight pets are more likely to have heart problems and older pets have a higher risk of developing leaky heart valves.
How are heart problems treated in pets?
Your veterinarian may choose different approaches for treatment based on the type of illness they have. We also consider your pet’s lifestyle and age when providing treatment for their cardiac problems. The following are some ways we treat heart disease at our hospital:
- Medication to correct heartbeat patterns and to reduce fluid in the lungs
- Surgery to insert pacemaker or repair torn valves
- Changes to their diet; low sodium diets help reduce fluid buildup
