While humans are more likely than ever before to survive heart disease, the same cannot be said of our 4-legged companions. As pets are living longer than ever before, more heart disease is being detected. Too often, pet owners do not take their animal to visit the veterinarian until they are displaying severe signs of heart failure, and by then it may be too late.

Oddly, pets do not seem to be susceptible to the most common type of heart disease seen in humans--blockage of the heart arteries. This may be partly due to the fact that they eat less fat and get more exercise than us!

Instead, there are 2 common types of acquired heart disease in animals (excluding outside influences like heartworms, injuries and infection). In one type, called valvular insufficiency, the heart valves thicken and then leak when the heart pumps. In the other type, called cardiomyopathy, the muscular walls of the heart become thickened and weakened. Both types of heart disease develop gradually over time and result in the same serious condition called heart failure. Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood at a rate required to meet the body's needs. While continuing to work harder to pump blood, further heart damage can occur.

It is important to know some of the symptoms of heart disease since early detection can help save your pet. The signs include lack of energy, labored breathing, lack of appetitive and weight loss, frequent coughing, and weakness, fainting, and swelling of the body.

As with all health problems, the best way to detect heart disease is through regular veterinary visits. A thorough physical exam may reveal heart murmur or lung congestion before any other symptoms have become evident. Chest X-rays and an EKG can help us determine the proper course of treatment. Although there is no cure, heart disease can be controlled and your pet's life can be extended with medication. Success of treatment depends on various factors, but early detection is the key.