Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a serious condition in which the heart is unable to process enough blood to meet the needs of an animal’s body. When this happens, fluid is retained in or around the lungs, causing congestion.
Although CHF is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, the good news is that it can often be treated and controlled if caught early enough.
Causes of CHF
The underlying cause of CHF is a progressively weakened heart muscle. For this reason, the condition is most commonly seen in older pets. Aside from age, other factors which can lead to CHF include congenital or developmental heart defects, heartworm infection, trauma, high blood pressure, obesity, and various types of infections.
Symptoms of CHF
The symptoms of CHF will depend on the individual animal and the severity of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing, and exercise intolerance. Pets with CHF may also display symptoms such as weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and fainting.
Unfortunately, in the early stages of the condition, symptoms can be quite subtle and difficult to detect. However, early diagnosis of the condition is critical for successful treatment. For this reason, it is important not to overlook relatively minor symptoms such as coughing or reduced activity levels.
Please protect your pet by taking them to your veterinarian for a checkup as soon you notice any of the potential signs or symptoms of CHF.
Diagnosis of CHF
If your veterinarian suspects that your pet has CHF, they will perform a series of tests to rule out other health conditions and reach an accurate diagnosis.
First, your veterinarian will look at your pet’s medical history and perform a thorough physical examination. This will include listening to your pet’s heart and lung function with a stethoscope to check for abnormalities.
Other diagnostic tests used to check for signs and symptoms of CHF include chest X-rays, urinalysis, echocardiography (ultrasound), and electrocardiography (ECG).
Treatment of CHF
Treatment will aim to address the underlying cause of CHF if it can be identified. If this is not possible, your veterinarian will focus primarily on managing and controlling your pet’s condition.
Various types of medications may be used to stabilize an animal or treat the cause of CHF. Your veterinarian will also advise you on dietary changes and exercise restriction that can help manage your pet’s health and extend their lifespan.
Unfortunately, unless the underlying cause of CHF can be cured, pets will require medication and careful monitoring for the remainder of their lives. It is very important to follow your veterinarian’s treatment instructions closely to manage your pet’s condition.
Prevention of CHF
There are no known preventative measures for combating CHF. The best way to protect your pet is by watching for early signs and symptoms of the condition and scheduling routine health examinations with your veterinarian.
