Congestive Heart
Failure (CHF) can affect both dogs and cats and usually develops in middle-age
and senior pets. Congestive Heart Failure is diagnosed when the heart cannot deliver enough blood to the body and
fluid backs up into a pet’s lungs and abdomen, putting pressure on
the heart. There can be a variety of reasons for CHF, but one of the more common
causes is Degenerative
mitral valve disease (DMVD). DMVD is detected by a heart murmur and may have a
genetic connection as it is more common in some breeds (e.g. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Newfoundland, Bull Terrier and Siamese cats) .
Congestive Heart Failure is a progressive
disease, but with early intervention you can improve the life-span and quality
of life for your pet.
Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
- Easily tiring after exercise
- Bluish discoloration of the tongue
- Sudden Collapse
- Difficulty breathing
- A persistent dry cough (cats do not cough)
- Accumulation of fluid in the lungs, leg or abdomen
- May have a hard time settling down (especially at
night)
- Fainting or dementia due to lack of blood flow to the
brain
- Cats will open mouth breathe and pant
· Feed a healthy anti-inflammatory diet
avoiding grains, fillers, fatty foods and chemicals.
· Maintain a healthy weight by consistent
exercise
· Maintain good dental health (bacteria
dog and cats mouths have been linked to heart valve infections)
· Use Heart Health Supportive Natural
Supplements
Natural Supplements For Dogs and Cats with Congestive Heart Failure
Amazing Omegas - A research-backed, powerful source of omega-3 nutrients (essential fatty acids) which has been shown to benefit dogs and cats with heart disease.
Purrfect Pet CoQ10 - powerful antioxidant that provides an efficient and
natural method of nutrient delivery for heart health and may slow the progression of heart disease.
Resveratrol for Dogs- an exceptional antioxidant that has been researched for it's cardiovascular support and cancer-fighting properties.