Another Name: Valvular Heart Disease

Disease Description: Weakness of heart valves producing heart murmurs and leading to cardiac failure. Prevalent in Cavalier King Charles spaniels.

Inherit Mode: -

Disease Symptom: In the early stages of heart disease, your dog’s body is able to make adjustments that allow her to cope with the disease. During this stage, your dog may show no visible signs of being sick. As time goes on and the valvular heart disease progresses, her body will no longer able to make these adjustments. As a result, you may notice any of the following symptoms:Coughing;Difficulty breathing;Exercise intolerance;Fainting;Pale gums;Loss of appetite

Disease Cause: -

Disease Diagnose: Your veterinarian will perform a very thorough physical examination, which includes listening to your dog’s heart.Your veterinarian may also recommend the following to help diagnose your dog’s condition:A radiograph, commonly known as an x-ray;A blood test for a cardiac biomarker called NTproBNP ;A CBC and chemistry profile to assess your dog's overall health;A blood pressure test;An ECG (electrocardiograph) to record your dog’s heart’s electrical action;An echocardiogram

Treat Method: If your dog is diagnosed with valvular heart disease, your veterinarian may prescribe the following treatment:Nutritional modification, such as a low-sodium diet;Diuretics, to help clear this excess fluid;Regular but controlled daily exercise;For advanced cases, drug therapy—these drugs that relax blood vessels and make it easier for the blood to circulate are often given once a patient develops the symptoms described above

Breeder Advice: Unfortunately, VHD is a progressive disease that can’t be prevented. Routine veterinary visits for your best friend can help identify heart conditions such as VHD in their earliest stages.

Disease Description Source: Link