Treating Heart Failure In Dogs And Cats

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     One cause of death among cats and dogs is heart failure. For pet owners who are unaware of this condition should equip themselves with the knowledge regarding heart failure and how it can be treated.

Medical treatment of the condition is the trend with pets. There are several medications that are used to alleviate the symptoms of the condition. When the symptoms are regulated, the pet will be able to live as normally as possible.

Before knowing about the treatment options available, a quick run through of the condition is necessary. First, there are two types of heart failure -- left-sided and right-sided heart failure. The former is characterized by symptoms related to the respiratory system like fluid in the lungs which will be manifested by coughing, among others. The right-sided heart failure leads to systematic symptoms like edema on the extremities.

As earlier specified, the aim of treatment of heart failure is improving the quality of life that pets will have by reducing the severity of symptoms and controlling them.

A common medication that is used in the treatment regimen are diuretics. The drug furosemide is a loop diuretic that acts on a part of the kidney. It further prevents the reabsorption of sodium and chloride thus releasing excess liquids from the body through the kidneys.

The removal of excess fluids in the pet's body allows for the reduction of symptoms as well.

Treatment measures of heart failure will not be successful with the use of one drug at a time. For the varied symptoms to be addressed as well and to potentiate the effects of other drugs, a combination of medications will be necessary. So, aside from diuretics, ACE inhibitors are also used. From its name, it inhibits the Angiotensin Converting Enzymes. Angiotensin is a hormone that causes an increase in the blood pressure of the body.

Vasodilators or medications that open up the blood vessels to allow for blood to pass easily may also be prescribed. If the pet is assessed to have irregular heartbeat, Digoxin which is a heart stimulant may be prescribed.

There are a lot more medications that can be used to treat heart failure. All these are prescription medications as it is not safe to take any of them without an advise from the doctor.

Aside from medical treatment, there are nonpharmacologic measures that can be employed. The most important consideration is the provision of a balanced diet for the pet. There should be appropriate amounts of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. Omega 3 fatty acids are essential.

The right amount of exercise is also necessary. But, also keep in mind not to expose your pet to too much exercise. The heart may not be able to handle the activity and fatigue that the exercise will generate.

Coupled with right diet and exercise, the medications that were prescribed for your pet will help them live longer. So, even if your pet's heart failure will not be cured, you can make sure that they have lived a quality life.