You may still be in shock if your dog has recently been diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Given the heart’s enormous importance, congestive heart failure can have very, very serious consequences if it fails to adequately pump blood into your dog’s body.
Congestive heart failure has a variety of causes and can result in a variety of health issues, but it’s not all bad news. Congestive heart failure can be treated and controlled if identified and treated as soon as possible, enabling your dog to live a normal life. Read on to find out how.
What is congestive heart failure?
The term “congestive heart failure” (CHF) describes the heart’s inability to adequately pump blood to the body. There are many causes of CHF in dogs. The two most common causes are:
Please refer to the handouts “Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs” and “Mitral Valve Disease in Dogs” for more details on these specific causes.
Depending on whether the dog has left- or right-sided heart failure, the clinical signs of CHF change.
Is CHF due mainly to heart valve disease?
CHF is most commonly caused by valvular insufficiency. MVI is thought to be the root cause of 80% of canine CHF cases. However, there are many other causes. CHF can also be brought on by heart rhythm issues, heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy), and narrowing of some major blood vessels. Initially, MVI results in left-sided congestive heart failure. Heart failure may progress and affect both sides of the heart if it is not treated.
Is CHF Contagious for Humans or Other Pets?
CHF is not contagious. Veterinarians strongly advise against breeding dogs with an underlying heart condition because heart disease can be hereditary.
FAQ
Is congestive heart failure painful for dogs?
Usually, dogs with congestive heart failure don’t show overt signs of pain. However, chest pain has been cited as a contributing factor in congestive heart failure in humans, so it’s possible that dogs also feel some discomfort. If you believe that your pet is in pain, seek veterinary care.
How do you know if congestive heart failure is getting worse in dogs?
Pets will experience progressively worse breathing issues as their heart failure worsens. Your pet may wheeze while sleeping or otherwise at rest, or you may notice her sides heaving more when she breathes. She might also pant or breathe more frequently with her mouth open.
What is the end stage of congestive heart failure in dogs?
Stage 4: CHF is in its final stage. Breathing becomes difficult even when at rest. It can be difficult to walk due to swollen legs or a bloated stomach caused by fluid accumulation in various body parts. It can even cause vomiting.
How do you comfort a dog with congestive heart failure?
- Medication. …
- Pacemaker. …
- Low-Salt Diet. …
- Exercise Management. …
- Supplements. …
- Being Careful About Treats.