Symptoms and Signs of Heart Failure in Dogs

Like it or not, heart failure in pets is quite common, especially as they approach the end of their lives. The good thing, however, is that there are several specific and apparent symptoms of heart failure that are almost impossible to miss if you usually pay close attention to your pet. Not only can this help you come to terms with the apparent inevitability (pets do live forever), but it also prolongs their lives a bit by contacting your vet promptly. 

Here are some of the common symptoms and signs of heart failure in cats and dogs 

1. Frequent Coughing 

Frequent coughing, mainly if it happens in a pet with advanced age, is one of the significant signs of looming heart failure. The cough is usually dry and raspy while accompanied by blood droplets or foam. As you expect, the cough often worsens with time just as the intensity of heart disease progresses. Finally, the animal will start coughing even at rest to the point where even simple tasks such as eating become a problem. 

2. Unexplained Restlessness and Pacing 

Dogs are usually more prone to restlessness and pacing from looming heart failure than cats. Either way, it is not unusual for both sets of pets to demonstrate this weird pattern/behaviour as they approach the end of their lives. Experts believe that pets will pace like this due to secondary heart failure symptoms usually manifest with discomfort. 

3.  A Swollen or Abnormally Distended Abdomen 

At later stages of heart failure, your pet will likely have a distended/swollen stomach. The symptom is usually due to the continuous build-up of fluid in the body, which is made worse by the weakening heart. And although it is not uncommon for pets to live for quite some time with a swollen stomach, most often than not, this signifies that they have entered the final stages of heart failure, which should be time to consider euthanasia options to avert further unnecessary suffering. 

4. Weakness and Lethargy 

Other common signs and symptoms of approaching heart failure in pets are unusual lethargy and weakness. An animal that was previously bustling with high energy suddenly becomes withdrawn, passive, and dull. And while weakness is a common symptom of many underlying health problems, possible heart failure usually ranks relatively high on that list. 

References: VCAhospitals, SmallDoorVet