Heart disease in dogs and cats

It’s a silent killer and more dogs and cats have heart problems than you would think.  Cristo, pictured above, has a heart murmur, he isn’t on medication though and there isn’t much we can do about his condition except monitor him carefully.   It was picked up on one of his health checks.

Signs of heart problems include shortness of breath, coughing, swelling of the tummy and a bluish tint on the skin inside the mouth, it should be a nice healthy pink.   None of these signs are certain though and Cristo doesn’t have any symptoms.

Keeping teeth clean is a good way to prevent heart disease, unhealthy gums encourage bacteria into the system and then the ‘bad bugs’ settle around the heart.  Regular vet checks, dental treatment and food that will keep the teeth clean should be part of daily care.  Raw carrots, dentasticks and tooth scrubbing will all help.

A quick guide to how your pet’s heart is performing will be shown by how fast it’s beating – place your hand against the animal’s chest near her left elbow.  If you count the number of beats in 15 seconds and then multiply by four it will be an indication.

A cat’s heart will normally beat at around 120 times a minute.  A dog’s heart will be between 60 and 160 beats depending on breed.  Familiarise yourself with your dog’s heart beat and then you know if there is any sudden variation.

Exercise will keep your pet healthy but it has to be in moderation – regular walks on the flat is good – don’t overdo it.