Mitral Valve Disease
Mitral Valve Disease is a common degenerative heart condition in small breed dogs. It occurs when the mitral valve tissues deteriorate and fail to close completely, leading to blood regurgitation. While this is a lifelong condition, with careful management and monitoring, dogs can maintain a stable and comfortable life for many years.
Daily Care Guidelines:
1. Diet Management
Transition to a veterinary-prescribed cardiac or renal diet to reduce sodium intake.
2. Weight Monitoring
Maintain an ideal body weight and minimize cardiac load.
3. Medication Compliance
Administer heart medications as directed by your veterinarian. Monitor for side effects and maintain regular communication with your vet.
4. Sleeping Respiratory Rate Monitoring
Track breathing frequency during sleep to detect early signs of worsening condition (normal rate: <30 breaths per minute).
Stages of Heart Disease
Stage A (High-Risk Period)
• Characteristics: No structural changes yet, but certain breeds (e.g., Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) are at high risk
• Management: Annual heart ultrasound screening, maintain ideal body weight
Stage B1 (Structural Abnormalities)
• Characteristics: Heart murmur detected during examination, but no heart enlargement
• Management: Heart ultrasound every 6 months, monitor sleeping respiratory rate
Stage B2 (Heart Enlargement)
• Characteristics: Significant enlargement of the left atrium/left ventricle
• Management: Begin heart medication to delay the onset of heart failure
Stage C (Heart Failure)
• Characteristics: Clinical symptoms such as coughing and difficulty breathing
• Management: Use a combination of medications to stabilise the condition
Stage D (End-Stage Heart Failure)
• Characteristics: Poor response to standard treatment
• Management: Oxygen therapy, adjust medication combinations
