Find out how some treatments are important to maintain the heart health of pets
Just as we humans need attention and healthy habits to preserve heart health, dogs and cats also need specific care to prevent cardiovascular problems. These diseases usually occur silently in pets, which makes identification difficult and can lead to serious consequences, such as death.
Mayara Andrade, veterinarian specialized in nutrition of Guabi Natural, a BRF Pet brand, pioneer of the Super Premium Natural segment for petsexplains that early identification and preventative measures can help ensure animals’ heart health. Below, the specialist clarifies the main doubts about cardiovascular diseases. Check!
1. In which heart diseases are most common pets?
According to the veterinarian, the most common diseases in pets they are congestive heart failure (CHF) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), as well as other types of valve degeneration, such as tricuspid valve degeneration. These conditions affect the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the body and compromising the animals’ overall health.
“Heart diseases are relatively common and can be congenital, especially when talking about puppies, or appear throughout life, with age, as degenerative changes in the heart valves”, explains the veterinarian.
Mayara Andrade explains that another common cardiovascular disease is heartworm disease, also known as heartworm, which is a type of parasitic heart disease transmitted by a mosquito, which can cause cardiac, pulmonary and systemic changes and even lead to the death of the animal .
“It is a serious zoonosis, transmitted by some mosquitoes known as Culex spp. and the Aedes spp.inducing the aegizi. When biting an infected animal, the mosquito can carry the worm larvae to other animals or humans. It is a dangerous disease because heartworm disease has no symptoms, which makes prevention a crucial measure. Cough, tiredness and heart failure appear later. If you have any doubts, we recommend that you contact your vet,” he explains.
2. Which breeds are more predisposed?
According to Mayara Andrade, breeds such as Doberman, Boxer and Cocker Spaniel are more predisposed to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), for example, while smaller breeds such as Poodle, Lhasa Apso and Yorkshire Terrier are more susceptible to valvular diseases, such as chronic valve degeneration, which can lead to congestive heart failure (CHF).
“Regardless of breed or age, frequent monitoring of the veterinarian and carry out checks as part of the clinical routine. In this way it is possible to detect heart disease early even in predisposed breeds”, he warns.
3. How can healthy eating help?
The veterinarian explains that maintaining a healthy and balanced diet with the necessary nutrients is essential to prevent heart disease and preserve the quality of life of animals. Furthermore, according to the expert, there are some nutrients, known as functional ingredients, which can be excellent allies in prevention of heart disease.
Among these are taurine and carnitine, amino acids that help with the contracture force of the heart muscle, contributing to better heart function, as well as omega 3s, more specifically EPA and DHA, which are also associated with improving heart health. heart and to the reduction of cardiac activity and levels of lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides) in the blood.
Super premium natural foods, which represent healthy and complete options for petsfor example, they meet the needs of animals and help maintain ideal weight, contributing to health, well-being and a longer, healthier life.
4. What are the symptoms of heart disease?
According to Mayara Andrade, in general, dogs and cats They may have symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dyspnea (rapid and short breathing), shortness of breath, tiredness, choking-like cough, exercise intolerance, purple tongue, and fainting may also occur. These signs may appear all together or increase as the disease progresses.
“It is important to always observe the animal and, when any changes are noticed, it is essential to contact a veterinarian for an evaluation. With the evolution of veterinary medicine, today we can count on more specific tests for the heart such as the electrocardiogram and echocardiogram, as well as cardiology specialists, thus being able to diagnose early, treat correctly and, consequently, promote the health and well-being of patients. pets“, he adds.
The specialist explains that heart disease can affect the quality and life expectancy of animals, but the earlier it is diagnosed, the greater the chance of successful treatment and, consequently, a better prognosis.
By Ana Kucera
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
