Why Your Pet Might Need to See a Veterinary Cardiologist

Heart disease is one of the top causes of death in dogs, especially later in life but not only then. The field of veterinary cardiology focuses on a pet’s cardiovascular and respiratory systems, encompassing both preventive care and the diagnosis and treatment of existing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. Veterinary cardiologists are board-certified doctors who have received extra training in the field to ensure they can provide expert care. Here are some of the main reasons your pet might need to see a veterinary cardiologist:

Common Cardiac Disorders

Some pets develop disorders of the heart, and others are born with them. Some of the most common cardiac issues in pets include:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: This is a disease that thickens the heart muscle, negatively affecting its ability to pump blood throughout the body.
• Congestive Heart Failure: This occurs when the heart is not pumping enough blood, which causes fluid to develop in the lungs (or in other areas).
• Degenerative Valve Disease: This disease affects dogs and causes valves to thicken, which can eventually lead to heart failure.
• Dilated Cardiomyopathy: This disease affects the heart’s ability to contract as it should.
• Systemic Hypertension: Also known as high blood pressure in pets, this condition can lead to a variety of serious health issues.
• Congenital Heart Disease: These are genetic problems with the heart that are present from birth.
• Cardiac Tumors: Although uncommon, it is possible for pets to develop tumors on the heart.
• Arrhythmia: This is classified as an unusual heart rhythm. In some pets, this means the heart beats too fast, and in others, it does not beat fast enough. Sometimes it just means an irregular heartbeat.

Symptoms of Cardiac Disorders

So, how do you know when it might be time to visit a veterinary cardiologist with your pet? There are some symptoms of cardiac issues that might let you know there’s a larger issue at play. These include:

• Trouble breathing
• Coughing regularly
• Lethargy or overall weakness
• Passing out
• Inability to relax
• Exercise intolerance
• Changes in affect or behavior
• Significant changes in weight
• Loss of appetite
• Distended belly

If you notice any of these symptoms, you should schedule a checkup with your regular veterinarian to determine if you need to visit a specialist. You know your pet best, and you will always be the first to notice when something seems amiss.

Veterinary Cardiologist

A veterinary cardiologist will take a detailed health history of your pet and perform a series of tests to learn the exact condition of your pet’s heart and lungs. Once the doctors have a definitive diagnosis, they can create a treatment plan that will best serve your pet. Sometimes, lifestyle changes are necessary to give an animal the best chance of success and increase heart health. At other times, medicine or surgery is recommended.

At Oakland Veterinary Referral Services, our team of board-certified veterinary specialists is here to help your pets experience their best, healthiest lives. Whether you need to see a veterinary cardiologist or another specialist, we are here for you. Call (248) 334-6877 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.