Cardiology

Here at AMC, our team of veterinarians and veterinary technicians provide a wide variety of treatments and therapies for pets who have heart conditions. Whether your pet was born with a heart problem, or they developed one later in life, we are here to help. To learn more about how we keep your furry friend’s heart beating strong, simply call us at 902-564-8356 and one of our team members will be more than happy to speak with you about your inquiry.

What is the most common heart problem among pets?

It depends on the specific breed. For cats, one of the most common heart health issues is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which causes the walls of their heart to thicken. For dogs, chronic valvular disease (which means that they have a leak in their heart that reduces the blood flow in their body) and myocardial disease (a weakened heart muscle pumps less efficiently) are the most common conditions.

What are the symptoms of heart disease in dogs, cats and other pets?

Shortness of breath, difficulty with exercise, excessive coughing, fainting or collapsing, swollen stomach and reduced appetite are all signs of heart disease in pets. If you notice any of these symptoms, please contact our team right away. If not heart problems, these can also be signs of other health conditions, so it’s important that your pet comes in for a complete exam so that we can properly diagnose them and begin appropriate treatments. Plus, heart conditions may not have any obvious signs in the beginning, which makes regular wellness exams that much more important. Think your pet is due for their annual appointment? Call us today to schedule their next consultation!

What treatments are available for pets with heart disease and other heart conditions?

When it comes to heart issues, a combination of treatments may be prescribed, depending on the diagnosis. Heart disease for example cannot be reversed, but it can be managed with changes to your pet’s diet (having them eat low-sodium foods) to reduce the strain on their heart. Other conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats can be managed with medications that can relax the heart and slow down its beating.