Knowledge is power, and an essential part of our job is ensuring pet parents have the information they need to make the best possible decisions for their pets. Here, we’ll examine five common myths about your pet’s heart health. Ready to debunk? Let’s begin!
Myth # 1: Only Senior Pets Suffer from Heart Disease
The Truth: While heart disease is more common in older pets, it’s not exclusive to them. Pets of any age can have heart conditions caused by a variety of factors, including congenital defects, breed predispositions, and infectious diseases. Early detection and regular check-ups can help manage these conditions effectively.
Myth # 2: Pets with Heart Disease Shouldn’t Exercise
The Truth: Exercise can be highly beneficial for pets with heart conditions, but it must be tailored to their condition and ability. Overexertion can be harmful, so it’s essential to consult with your veterinary cardiologist to design an appropriate exercise routine that properly supports heart health.
Myth # 3: Coughing Always Means Heart Problems
The Truth: Coughing is a very nonspecific symptom and can be caused by a host of different issues, not just heart disease. While coughing is a common symptom of heart conditions such as congestive heart failure, it can also result from respiratory conditions, allergies, or irritants. If your pet is coughing, it’s best to have them examined by a veterinarian to determine the cause.
Myth # 4: Heart Disease is a Death Sentence
The Truth: Though a diagnosis of heart disease is serious, many pets with heart conditions live long and happy lives. Advances in veterinary medicine have made it possible to manage heart disease more effectively than ever before, and we’re with you every step of the way.
Myth # 5: Diet Has No Effect on Heart Health
The Truth: Like in people, diet is crucial in managing your pet’s heart health. Diets low in sodium are often recommended for pets with heart disease; some may benefit from supplements like omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, grain-free diets high in legumes have been linked to dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs. Your pet’s diet is extremely important to their overall health, and this includes their heart! Your veterinary team can make dietary recommendations tailored to the needs of your pet.
We’re Here to Help!
We know that there is a lot of information out there, and not all of it is trustworthy or from reputable sources. If you have any questions about any information you’ve found online or elsewhere, we’re all ears! Your pet’s best health is the heart (pun intended) of everything we do, and we strive to be a trusted partner and resource for your furry friend’s needs.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions at (949) 432-3221.
