This article discusses dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs in more detail.
Canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a leading disease of cardiac muscle that results in the heart’s decreased ability to produce pressure to pump blood through the rest of the body. This article discusses dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs in more detail.
What Is It?
The heart is one big muscle and with DCM that muscle degenerates, becoming thicker and weaker over time. As this occurs, the heart becomes less and less capable of pumping blood to the rest of the body effectively. Since the blood isn’t being pumped out of the heart properly, it builds up in the heart. This causes increased pressure, which in turn forces the heart muscle walls to stretch. The stretching of the heart is was gives it the dilated appearance. DCM can be caused in dogs by several factors, including nutrition, genetics, and infections. It has long been associated with genetics because numerous breeds are more likely to be affected. DCM occurs especially in large-breed dogs, most commonly in Boxers, Irish Wolfhounds, and Doberman Pinschers.
Signs and Symptoms
Dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs can seem to come on abruptly. The changes are gradual and can do unnoticed until the dog is unable to compensate, which can make is seem like it started all of a sudden. The following signs can occur due to a lack of oxygenated blood going to the body or they can be a consequence of fluid backing up from the heart into the lungs, making it harder to breathe:
- Rapid or difficulty breathing
- Difficulty getting comfortable or lying down
- Wet cough or hack
- Blue tinge to tongue or gums
- Tiring easily, intolerance to exercise
- Increased effort while breathing, chest heaving
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy or weakness
- Swollen belly
- Fainting or collapse
Diagnosis
A combination of tests can diagnose dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs. Your vet will begin by attentively listening to your dog’s heart for the presence of a murmur. They will also listen attentively for any muffled lung sounds or crackles that might show fluid buildup in the lungs. X-rays are taken to view the heart’s size and inspect for any fluid or enlargement.
Your vet may complete bloodwork and observe the urine to screen for underlying kidney disease, as many furry patients simultaneously have heart and kidney disease. A ProBNP exam might be performed to search for excessive amounts of a specific protein that goes along with damage or stretching of the heart muscle. If there are any abnormal findings a full cardiac workup would be indicated. This will include an electrocardiogram to determine any irregularities in the heartbeat and an echocardiogram to visualize the structure of the heart.
Management
Treatment of dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs is directed at enhancing the heart’s pump function, dilating the peripheral blood vessels to lower ventricular workload, removing pulmonary congestion if present, and controlling heart rate and cardiac arrhythmias if present. These treatment goals are achieved by the administration of cardiac medications, which might be delivered by injection in urgent situations or orally in patients who are in stable conditions.
Prognosis
The short-term prognosis for dogs with DCM depends mainly on the severity of the heart failure, but the long-term prognosis is poor, and many dogs do not live more than 6 months after diagnosis. However, medical therapy might substantially improve the lifespan and quality of life of affected dogs. Early intervention can help give a dog with DCM a better chance of living a longer life with the disease, which is why regular exams with your veterinarian are key to keeping your pet healthy.
HERE AT MOUNT CARMEL ANIMAL HOSPITAL, WE’LL TREAT YOUR PETS LIKE FAMILY!
Mount Carmel Animal Hospital has been serving the Northern Baltimore/Southern York community for over 30 years and is proud to be an independently operated, small animal practice committed to excellence in veterinary medicine and client service. From grooming to wellness services, along with Canine Life Skills Training Courses, and surgical procedures, we have the expertise that will best serve the needs of you and your pet. Contact us at 410-343-0200 and follow us on Facebook