February is American Heart Month—the perfect time to focus on heart health for people and their pets. Whether you share your home with a doting dog or an affectionate feline, understanding how to support strong pet heart health is one of the most loving choices you can make. In this blog, our team at Shiloh Veterinary Hospital shares important tips for protecting the heart of your furry friend.
Common Heart Diseases in Dogs and Cats
Heart disease can develop in pets of any age, but senior pets are more prone to it as their heart muscles weaken.
Dog heart disease often shows up as valve problems, congenital defects, or issues with the heart muscle itself. Cats, on the other hand, develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy—a thickening of the heart walls that can make it difficult for the heart to pump effectively.
While these conditions may sound serious, early detection and proper cat heart care or dog heart disease management can significantly improve a pet’s quality of life. That’s why knowing what to look for is essential.
Signs of Heart Problems in Pets
Because pets can’t tell us when something feels wrong, subtle shifts in daily habits often provide the first clues. Keep a close watch for these signs of heart problems in pets:
- Coughing, especially at night or after activity
- Difficulty breathing or rapid, shallow breaths
- Decreased stamina, reluctance to exercise, or tiring quickly
- Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
- Swelling in the abdomen (fluid buildup)
- Fainting or collapsing, particularly in dogs
- Hiding or withdrawing—a common sign of discomfort in cats
Any of these symptoms warrants a prompt call to your Shiloh Veterinary Hospital team. Catching cardiac concerns early gives pets the best chance at successful treatment.
How to Support Pet Heart Health
Pets benefit from heart-healthy habits just like we do. Here are a few ways you can strengthen your pet’s cardiovascular health:
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity puts unnecessary strain on the heart. We’re happy to help you choose the right diet and portion sizes for your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle.
2. Choose Heart-Smart Nutrition
High-quality food rich in lean proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients supports strong cardiac function.
3. Schedule Regular Checkups
Annual (or semiannual for senior pets) exams are essential for detecting heart murmurs, rhythm abnormalities, or early structural changes.
4. Keep Parasites Away
Heartworm disease remains a serious threat in dogs and, increasingly, cats. Monthly parasite prevention provides the best protection.
5. Encourage Safe Exercise
Daily walks, gentle play sessions, and interactive toys help keep pets active while strengthening the cardiovascular system.
A Heartfelt Reminder
Pets bring us endless joy, comfort, and companionship—and they rely on us to keep their hearts happy and healthy. For more February pet health awareness tips or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at (818) 614-9929.