Heart disease is a common condition seen at Uni Vets Camden. It can present as either congenital (from birth) or acquired (later in life), however acquired cases are more common.
Acquired heart disease most often involves either the valves of the heart or the heart muscle itself. Animals can also present with issues with their heart rate or beat, which are called arrhythmias. These can occur as a primary issue, or as a result of other heart diseases. Issues with any one of these parts of the heart can lead to heart failure, which will require veterinary intervention. Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot adequately pump blood around the body sufficiently for normal activity.
Signs of heart failure can include increased respiratory rate or laboured breathing, coughing, abnormal heart rates, sounds and murmurs, fainting, blue gums or even exercise intolerance.
If your pet has any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to contact Uni Vets Camden for more information or to make an appointment.
By Cameron Grundy, 2017 Veterinary Graduate, The University of Sydney
