cardiovascular disease in small animal s

In some breeds, especially the Great Dane, males appear more susceptible to DCM than females. Nutritional deficiencies related to taurine and carnitine have been found to contribute to the formation of DCM in certain breeds, such as Boxers and Cocker Spaniels.Įvidence also suggests that some breeds have a genetic susceptibility to DCM, such as the Doberman Pinscher, Boxer, Newfoundland, Scottish Deerhound, Irish Wolfhound, Great Dane and Cocker Spaniel. The incidence of DCM in dogs increases with age and usually affects dogs that are 4-10 years old.Īlthough the definitive cause of DCM in dogs is unknown, the disease is believed to have several factors, including nutrition, infectious disease and genetics. Slow capillary refill time in the mucous membrane tissues (e.g., gums are slow to turn pink again after pressing on them gently), indicating poor circulationīreathing sounds muffled or crackly due to the presence of fluid in the lungs Premature heart contractions that originate in or above the ventricles On the other hand, a thorough physical exam can reveal some of the subtle symptoms of DCM, such as: In some cases, dogs with preclinical DCM (prior to the appearance of symptoms) may be given a questionable diagnosis if they appear to be in fine health. Symptoms of Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs If left untreated, the compromised heart muscle eventually becomes overwhelmed by the increased fluid volume, resulting in congestive heart failure (CHF).

With DCM, the muscle wall of the heart becomes thinner, causing it to lose the ability to pump blood to the rest of the body.Īs a result, fluid can accumulate in certain tissues, including the lungs. In most cases of DCM in dogs, the ventricles (lower chambers of the heart) become enlarged, though some cases also involve enlargement of the atria (upper heart chambers). What DCM Does to a Dog’s Heart and Lungs? Here’s what you need to know about cardiomyopathy in dogs, from the symptoms and how it affects their bodies to diagnosis and treatment. Natalie Stilwell, DVM, MS, PhDĭilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disease of the heart muscle that is characterized by an enlarged heart that does not function properly. Reviewed and updated for accuracy on July 10, 2019, by Dr.

Cardiovascular disease in small animal s