Vet's Voice Kathleen Linpus www.vetcaretauranga.co.nz

As your dog or cat grows older, the risk of heart failure grows too. The heart is the most important organ in your pet's body, pumping blood containing oxygen and nutrients through the blood vessels to the cells of the body.

Breed and age play a major role in the development of heart conditions, but obesity is also a risk factor. The signs of heart disease can be subtle and can be mistaken for normal changes due to ageing.

More commonly appearing in pets aged seven and older, signs of heart disease you may notice include:

• Coughing
• Lack of energy, depression or not wanting to exercise
• Poor appetite
• Laboured or fast breathing
• Fainting
• Weight loss
• Swollen abdomen

In the very early stages of heart disease, there may be no visible signs, however, your vet may be able to hear a murmur or irregular heartbeat when they listen to your pet's heart with a stethoscope or they may be able to hear the crackle of fluid in the lungs.
Early diagnosis and treatment means your dog or cat will lead a happier, healthier and longer life. We can offer them medications that reduce lung fluid and help the heart beat more effectively and we have special foods that also help the heart to function better. Come see our team if your pet has any of the signs above.

Your pet holds a special place in your heart, so keeping their heart healthy is very important.

Kathleen joined VCT in 2005. She completed her Veterinary Degree in 2003 and has a special interest in Ophthalmology (eyes) and Oncology (cancer). She is proud mum to dogs Romey and Manny and Woof the cat. Phone VetCare 07 576 9069.