Heart Health For All Pets

Congenital Heart Defects

These are structural defects present at birth. Examples include Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), pulmonic stenosis, subaortic stenosis, and ventricular septal defects. PDA, for example, is a persistently open fetal blood vessel causing excess blood to recirculate to the lungs. Over time, this overloads the left Heart and can cause congestive failure. A continuous “machinery” heart murmur in a puppy often hints at PDA. Many congenital defects can now be cured with surgery: for instance, PDA is typically closed by tying off the vessel or placing an occlusion device via catheter. Early surgical correction of significant PDA prevents the irreversible heart damage that leads to heart failure. ModernVet offers surgical consultations for these cases.

Pericardial Disease

This indicates there is fluid or a tumor in the sac around the Heart. Heart function can rapidly decline. Aspiration of the fluid or repair of an inherent cause (such as a cancer) is commonly needed. Recurrent pericardial effusion, though less common, is a serious condition that can be sufficiently managed by a cardiologist.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Especially in senior cats (commonly in cats with kidney disease or thyroid disease) or some dogs, hypertension places a great burden on the Heart and leads to strokes or heart failure. Therapy focuses on treatment for hypertension and protection for organs.

Heartworm Disease

Where mosquitoes are found, heartworm (Dirofilaria) is infectious in dogs (and rarely cats), which causes serious Heart and pulmonary lesions. Prevention is best, but established infections are managed by cardiologists using special protocols.

Signs and Symptoms of Heart Disease

Pet heart disease often develops slowly, and there are often mild symptoms. Common signs are:

• Coughing or abnormal Breathing: Heart failure in pets can result in a continuous cough or heavy breathing even when at rest. A recurring “cardiac cough” is typical in dogs when there is an accumulation of fluid in the lungs. Cats more commonly display rapid breathing or open-mouth breathing.
• Exercise Intolerance: Getting easily tired while playing or taking a walk, a dislike for exercise, or excessive panting is an indication of a weak heart.
• Lethargy and Weakness: General lethargy or weakness, or appearing drowsy more often than usual, may be a sign of this. Some animals may also faint for no reason.
• Abnormal Heart Sounds: Your cardiologist or family doctor may note a heart murmur (turbulent flow of blood) or an abnormal rhythm with a stethoscope. Murmurs suggest additional testing.
• Swollen Belly or Fluid Buildup: As it gets worse, there might be a buildup of fluid in the chest or belly (ascites). It may cause a swollen belly or problems breathing.
• Syncope (Fainting): Any fainting episode is a red flag. There should be an ECG and cardiac assessment in an attempt to identify arrhythmias or end-organ heart disease.

How Heart Diseases Are Diagnosed

Correct treatment is directly based on proper diagnosis. At ModernVet Clinic, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, including:

• Echocardiography (heart ultrasound): Produces detailed images of heart structure and blood flow.
• Electrocardiography (ECG): Records the electrical activity of the Heart for the detection of arrhythmias.
• Radiography (X-rays): Assesses the size of the Heart and the presence of fluids in the lungs.
• Holter Monitoring: Monitors the rhythm of the Heart over 24 to 48 hours for real-time monitoring.
• Laboratory Testing: Measures cardiac biomarkers and evaluates the effect of heart disease on other organs.

These technologies allow us to characterize exactly the nature of an animal’s heart disease, disease progression, and measure response to therapy.

Treatments for Pet Heart Disease

The treatment plan for animal heart disease depends on the diagnosis results, together with the disease severity and the pet’s overall health condition.

Medical Management

The main therapeutic approach for animals involves medication. The combination of diuretics with ACE inhibitors and Pimobendan medications helps reduce fluid accumulation while improving blood flow and strengthening heart contractions. The treatment of arrhythmias involves beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, while anticoagulants serve to stop dangerous blood clots.

Dietary and Behavioral Treatments

A heart-healthy diet consisting of low salt content helps decrease heart stress. The cardiovascular system requires weight control because excessive weight creates additional strain.

Surgical and Invasive Treatments

Certain conditions require surgical intervention. ModernVet provides three types of minimally invasive procedures, including Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) closure and balloon valvuloplasty for heart valve stenosis and pacemaker implantation for specific cases.

Long-Term Monitoring

Pet heart care requires ongoing attention after the initial diagnosis. Our cardiologists perform regular check-ups to monitor treatment progress, modify medications and develop plans for potential complications. The practice of thinking ahead allows the best possible comfort and lifespan for your pet.

Preventing Heart Problems in Pets

While congenital defects cannot be prevented, many acquired heart issues can be managed, or their progression can be slowed through preventive care. Annual veterinary check-ups, even for apparently healthy pets, are vital for early detection. Breeds predisposed to heart problems should undergo specialized screening. A nutritious diet, regular moderate exercise, and management of other chronic illnesses all support long-term heart health.

Why Choose ModernVet Clinic for Cardiac Care

The ModernVet Clinic stands as the sole specialist cardiology-focused veterinary hospital in the region. Our care is directed by board-certified experts who include Dr. Roy Hassoun, who specialises in advanced imaging, Dr. Artem Pavlyuchenko, who studies canine and feline heart disease and Dr. Muhammad Waseem Aslam, who leads the field in interventional cardiac techniques.

We offer state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and 24/7 cardiac urgent care, multiple convenient Dubai locations, and compassionate client education as free services to keep you at ease throughout your journey.

Get Expert Cardiac Care for Your Pet

ModernVet Clinic is here to be your partner in holistic pet heart health. As Dubai’s leading vet hospital for cardiology, we blend empathetic care with state-of-the-art medicine. Do not delay if you think your pet is suffering from a heart issue – early assessment by our veterinary cardiologists can prove life-altering.

Call ModernVet today for a free 800-82 or book a cardiology appointment online at our website. Our friendly and courteous staff will help you choose a location near you (we have multiple branches in the UAE) and schedule any diagnostic testing you need. Whether a routine check-up or a severe heart issue, you can be assured our specialist team is dedicated to caring for your beloved cat or dog. Your pet’s happy, healthy Heart is our speciality – call now to book an appointment at ModernVet Clinic.