At the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) Cardiology Service, our goal is to provide the best possible care for pets with heart diseases.
The treatment plan for your pet will depend on the heart disease they have. The treatment will be tailored to meet the unique needs of your pet, ensuring your pet’s quality of life.
Medications for heart health
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Medications to Improve Heart Function
Pimobendan: This medication improves the contractility of the heart.
Diuretics: These medications, such as furosemide, increase urine output to reduce fluid buildup in the lungs and other parts of the body. Diuretics are crucial in managing heart failure symptoms and can be life-saving during a crisis.
ACE Inhibitors (Enalapril or benazepril): These medications help cardiac function and have cardio-protective function.
Medication to treat heart failure
Diuretics (Furosemide): This medication is crucial when your pet is in heart failure. It removes the fluid in the lungs that accumulates when your pet is in heart failure and causes breathing problems.
Surgical Interventions
Pacemaker Implantation
In cases where the heart’s electrical system is compromised, a pacemaker can be surgically implanted to regulate heartbeats and ensure proper blood flow.
Nutritional & Lifestyle Modifications
Weight Management
We recommend maintaining an optimal weight for heart health. We provide guidance on suitable exercise routines and dietary plans to keep your pet at a healthy weight without putting undue strain on their heart.
Supplements
There is no evidence that supplements are beneficial for dogs and cats with heart diseases. Should your pet have a heart disease that is diet associated, taurine supplementation might be recommended.
Disease-specific Treatments:
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
CHF requires a comprehensive treatment approach, including diuretics to remove excess fluid, ACE inhibitors to reduce blood pressure, and pimobendan to strengthen heart contractions. Regular monitoring and adjustments in medication are essential to manage this condition effectively.
Mitral Valve Disease
This common condition in dogs involves the degeneration of the mitral valve, leading to heart failure if untreated. Treatments include medications like ACE inhibitors and pimobendan, with surgery considered in severe cases.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
DCM involves the enlargement and weakening of the heart muscles. Treatment typically includes ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and pimobendan. Regular echocardiograms and blood tests help monitor the disease’s progression.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Common in cats, HCM leads to the thickening of the heart muscles. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications with medications like beta blockers and anticoagulants.
Research & Innovation
At OVC Cardiology, we are committed to advancing veterinary cardiology through ongoing research and clinical trials. Our team is involved in cutting-edge studies aimed at improving diagnostic techniques and developing new treatments for heart diseases in pets. By participating in these trials, we aim to provide our patients with access to the latest and most effective therapies.
Support for Caregivers
We understand that managing a pet’s heart condition can be challenging. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. We offer:
Educational Resources: Access to detailed information about heart diseases, treatments, and what to expect during your pet’s visit.
Follow-Up Care: Regular check-ups and adjustments to treatment plans to ensure optimal management of your pet’s condition.
Emotional Support: Compassionate care and support for you and your pet throughout their treatment journey.