Heart Disease
PopularA cough now in its second month may be a signal from the heart.
Signs to watch for
- Coughing that persists for more than 2 weeks
- Sleeping respiratory rate above 30 breaths per minute
- Tires easily and struggles on walks
- Pale or bluish tongue or gums
- Has collapsed or fainted
* Cats often hide symptoms — if the belly visibly heaves with each breath, please have it checked promptly.
What causes it?
Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD)
The heart's valve no longer closes tightly — like a worn door — allowing blood to leak backward. It is common in older small-breed dogs, and management focuses on slowing progression.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
The heart muscle wall thickens, narrowing the chamber. It is the most common heart disease in cats and is often found only through testing, even when a cat looks perfectly healthy.
Heartworm disease
A parasite transmitted by mosquitoes that settles in the heart and lung vessels. It can be reliably prevented with preventive medication.
How we diagnose & treat
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Step 1. History & auscultation
We review when symptoms began, the pattern of coughing, and listen for heart murmurs.
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Step 2. Chest X-ray
We assess heart size and lung condition to evaluate disease progression.
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Step 3. Echocardiography
Real-time imaging of the valves and heart muscle to determine the type and stage of disease.
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Step 4. Blood & biomarker tests
Cardiac stress markers (e.g., NT-proBNP) together with overall organ status.
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Step 5. Staged management plan
Medication, diet, and recheck intervals designed for the diagnosed stage, managed long term.
Key conditions
- Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD)
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)
- Heartworm disease
- Pulmonary edema
- Arrhythmia
FAQ
No. Coughing also occurs with airway or lung disease and infections such as kennel cough. However, for older dogs with night-time coughing or coughing when excited, we recommend a cardiac workup first.
Contact Us
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