Treatment for cough due to heart murmur

Question
I have a 12 year old 9.7 lb male Chihuahua that was diagnosed with a heart murmur several years ago and it has progressed.  He began coughing a couple of weeks ago and I took him in to be checked last week.  I was given benazepril and give him 1/2 a tablet daily.  The coughing has not improved.  He doesn't cough all the time, but when he does it seems pretty wrenching.  Is there anything I can do to help ease the coughing?  Also, I've read that Co Q10 at 1 mg per pound, L canitine, and taupine could be hlepful.  Are they compatible with the benazepril?  How much of the L canitine and taupine should be given for his weight, if they are ok to add to his diet.  Speaking of diet, I feed him Natural Balance.

I would appreciate any guidance you could give on this matter.  Thank you!

Nancy

Answer
If the cough has not improved with the Benazapril you should have him rechecked at your vet. He may also need a diuretic such as lasix.Did he have chest xrays and an echocardiogram? this would help determine the actual cause of the cough. The supplements you mentioned(l-carnitine, CoQ10 and taurine) are more beneficial with dilated cardiomyopathy. They will not help with congestive heart failure(CHF) secondary to valvular disease. This is the most likely diagnosis for a chihuahua such as yours.

The diet is fine although you may wish to check the sodium level to be sure it is not too high if your dog does have CHF.

Dr. G.