Everything You Need to Know About Protecting Your Pet’s Heart

Every February, Heart month is observed in America to raise awareness about heart health. However, the month is not just for humans; it is for your pets too! Here’s everything you need to know on how to protect your pet’s heart and keep it running perfectly.

Pet’s Heart Disease – Signs and Symptoms

Compared to us humans, heart disease in pets (such as cats or dogs) is quite rare but nonetheless, it is always a possibility. If your pet experiences any of the following signs and symptoms mentioned below, you should book an appointment with a vet as urgently as possible:

• Dry coughing after exercise
• Pale gums
• Rapid weight loss
• Cough that worsens at night
• Chronic Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Fainting spells
• Swollen abdomen

Tips on Keeping Your Pet’s Heart Healthy

Diet

Diet is often the most crucial aspect of keeping your pet’s heart-healthy. Your pet should receive the right balance of nutrition to stay active and healthy. Obesity or a diet of too much fatty food, just like in humans, can increase the risk of heart disease for your pets. If you are unsure if a diet plan is fit for your pet or not, consider consulting a vet.

Exercise

Regular exercise can keep your pet’s cardiovascular system performing in optimal shape. Fortunately, most pets love playtime, so it shouldn’t be too hard to get them their required need for a daily workout.

Supplements

Supplements, such as Omega-3 fatty acids, may help in keeping your pet’s heart-healthy. Your vet will best guide you on the right dosage and prescription.

Dental Hygiene

Observing improper dental care for your dog or cat can give them more than just bad breath. Plaque or tarter built-up on their gums and teeth can enter their bloodstream and make your pet vulnerable to all sorts of terrible illnesses, including congestive heart failure. Maintain a regular brushing routine for your pet and visit the vet if you notice signs such as bleeding or swollen gums.

As mentioned before, if your pet shows any signs of heart disease, it is important to take them to a veterinary clinic as soon as possible. If you live in Fayetteville, NC and are in need of a certified vet, consider Cliffdale Animal Hospital for the best care for your furry friend.