By Dr. Anju Synghal | Senior Veterinary Physician, Gurgaon
As a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience, I’ve seen how often the early signs of heart disease in pets are missed — not because pet parents don’t care, but because the symptoms can be subtle. By the time it’s obvious, the condition is often already serious.
The good news? With timely diagnosis, proper care, and a little awareness, heart disease in pets is manageable — and many dogs and cats go on to live full, happy lives.
Here’s what every responsible pet parent should know:
🩺 Who’s at Risk?
Heart disease can affect all pets, but age, gender & breed can be a factor. Some are more vulnerable than others:
· Middle age & seniour pets are more at risk.
· Some cat breeds like Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and British Shorthairs.
· Small dog breeds like Shih Tzus, Cockers, Poodles, Cavaliers, Dachshunds, and Pomeranians
· Large dog breeds like Dobermans and Great Danes
· Factors such as obesity, metabolic disorders & diet also play a role.
If your pet falls into one of these groups, regular monitoring is essential.
⚠️ 10 Signs You Should Never Ignore
Even small changes can indicate an underlying heart issue. Keep an eye out for:
1. Persistent coughing – not responding to cough medicine – especially at night or after exercise
2. Laboured breathing – even at rest
3. Exercise intolerance – getting tired easily
4. Loss of appetite – not eating as usual
5. Unexplained weight loss
6. Swollen abdomen (fluid retention)
7. Pale or bluish gums (poor oxygen levels)
8. Cold paws & ears (poor circulation)
9. Fainting, collapsing or loss of balance
10. Posterior or front leg paresis (in cats)
Don’t wait until symptoms worsen. Early intervention saves lives.
🧪 What to Expect During a Cardiology Exam
At Dr. Synghal Pet Care & Surgery LLP, we use a combination of tools to accurately diagnose heart conditions:
· History from Pet Parent: Coughing, exercise intolerance, dyspnea (difficulty breathing), orthopnea (difficulty breathing while lying down), syncope (fainting), and episodic weakness.
· Cardiac Auscultation: Evaluation of heart sounds and murmurs using a stethoscope.
· Physical Examination: Includes weight check, tracheal palpation, jugular vein assessment, examination of skin and mucous membranes, and inspection of extremities (tips of ears and paws).
· Diagnostic Imaging: Three-view chest X-rays to assess heart size and lung condition.
· Blood Pressure Monitoring: Measurement of systemic blood pressure to detect hypertension or hypotension.
· Electrocardiography (ECG): Recording of the heart’s electrical activity to identify rhythm abnormalities.
· Abdominal Palpation: Examination for fluid accumulation, organ enlargement, or other abnormalities.
· Blood Tests: Comprehensive analysis to evaluate overall health and detect underlying conditions.
· Eye Examination: Assessment of ocular health to identify signs of systemic diseases affecting the heart.
· Echocardiography (Heart Ultrasound): Real-time imaging of heart structure, function, and blood flow.
· Holter Monitoring (if needed): Continuous 24-48 hour monitoring of heart rhythm to detect intermittent arrhythmias.
💚 Heart to Heart Tips for Pet Parents
✅ Balanced Diet: Tailored to your pet’s age, breed, and size.
✅ Essential Nutrients: Include taurine, carnitine, and antioxidants.
✅ Daily Exercise: Walks, play, and mental stimulation.
✅ Weight Management: Keep body weight ideal — avoid overfeeding.
✅ Dental Care: Brush teeth, use dental chews, schedule cleanings.
✅ Stress-Free Living: Provide enrichment, love, and a stable routine.
✅ Annual Health Checkups: Vet visits every year — every 6 months for senior pets.
✅ Watch for Changes: Behavior shifts, appetite loss, coughing, fatigue — act early.
💚 Because prevention is the best medicine!🎨🐶✨
🛡️ Prevention Is Powerful
As a rule of thumb, here’s how you can stay ahead of heart problems:
· Book annual heart check-ups for pets aged 6 and above
· Keep your pet at a healthy weight
· Choose a diet that supports cardiovascular health
· Be proactive — if something feels off, get it checked
🐾 Final Thought
Your pet may not speak, but their body sends signals. As their guardian, the best thing you can do is listen — and act early.
If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs above, or if your pet is at risk due to age or breed, don’t wait. Book a heart check-up today.
📍 Dr. Synghal Pet Care & Surgery LLP | Gurgaon
💚 Gentle, expert-led care — for a healthier, happier heart.