Heart disease and your pet - early detection is key!


Our canine and feline pets are prone to heart disease just as we are. As with any medical condition, early detection is the best way to prolong the lives of pets with heart disease, and to this end, any examination of your pets will include assessment of the heart. 



Early detection is key to managing your pet's heart disease.


Mack has been part of our family for over 10 years, he came to us from Project Dog at around age 2 after his previous owner sadly passed away.

He has been a miracle dog for us, having had cancer 4 times and overcoming it each time - the first time being in the first 12 months after we adopted Mack.

We are always conscious of bumps and lumps on Mack owing to his previous cancers, but last year we noticed that Mack had a 'bit of a cough' and it wouldn't go away, we brought him in to Westville Veterinary Hospital for a full check-up. After examination, x-rays, and CT scan, it was diagnosed he had some cardiovascular issues and he started treatment straight away.

We bring Mack for follow up consultation every few months. Regular checks are important as cardiovascular issues progress, and it is sometimes necessary to alter the treatment to ensure Mack is comfortable. Mack is a happy dog despite being on several different medications and is still a busy dog despite his age. 

Mack is our special hero 'legend dog', he has saved our family and home from fire, waking us up in the middle of night agitated and having us go upstairs to find our house in flames!! He is a fun loving dog, very protective of us and generally likes hanging around our garden and on the couch.

Without Westville Vet and an early diagnosis, Mack dog no doubt would have a very shortened life span, and an uncomfortable one. We always appreciate the care given to all our fur babies at Westville Vet.

 - Jo Bennett




Certain breeds of dogs (small breeds such as Dachshund, Maltese, spaniels, and terriers) are genetically predisposed to a condition affecting the mitral valve of the heart. Cat breeds (such as Maine Coon, Persian, Siamese and Sphynx) are also predisposed to genetic heart conditions.


In recent years, new developments in therapeutic drugs for this condition have dramatically improved our ability to treat these patients, providing longer symptom-free periods and better quality of life. Cats are also prone to certain heart conditions, and similar measures can also improve the outcome for them. It all starts with an understanding of the need for frequent checks to detect early symptoms, something Westville Veterinary Hospital can do for you as a routine. 

Early signs of heart disease may include:



These signs often develop in dogs older than 8 years of age. Other heart conditions may occur in younger pets, however. 
Early diagnosis is aided by newer technologies such as ultrasound (echocardiography). Certain blood tests can also be of value, depending on the case. These tests are available at this practice, so please talk to one of our vets should you have any questions.







Article written by : Dr Phil Rees (Specialist Physician)



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