How to Keep Your Pet's Heart Healthy

Pets are cherished members of the family, and just like us, they deserve the best chance at a long, healthy life. One area that often goes overlooked in pet care is heart health. While genetics can play a role in cardiovascular conditions, research shows that up to 95% of heart disease in pets is linked to environmental and lifestyle factors—not just heredity.

The good news? With the right habits and care, you can support your pet’s heart and overall well-being. Below, we break down the signs of heart disease in pets and offer simple, actionable tips to help keep your dog’s or cat’s heart healthy.

Why Heart Health Matters for Pets

A healthy heart powers your pet’s entire body—supporting energy levels, mobility, and organ function. By protecting their cardiovascular system, you’re helping them stay active, happy, and by your side for years to come.

Tips to Support Your Pet’s Heart Health

Here are some key ways to promote cardiovascular wellness and help reduce the risk of heart disease in dogs and cats:

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight can place added strain on your pet’s heart, increasing the risk of high blood pressure and other complications. Talk to your vet about your pet’s ideal weight and feeding plan.

2. Feed a Balanced, Nutrient-Rich Diet

Choose a high-quality, species-appropriate diet with essential nutrients like taurine, L-carnitine, omega 3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, all of which play a role in heart function and overall health.

3. Add Supplements

Supplements can be a valuable addition to your pet’s daily routine, especially when it comes to supporting heart health from multiple angles. While diet and exercise lay the foundation, targeted supplements can fill nutritional gaps and provide additional cardiovascular support.

Consult your vet before starting any new supplement routine.

4. Encourage Daily Physical Activity

Regular, age-appropriate exercise improves circulation, keeps the heart strong, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Whether it’s daily walks, active playtime, or climbing opportunities for cats, movement is key.

5. Prioritize Dental Health

Poor oral hygiene can lead to bacteria entering the bloodstream, increasing the risk of cardiovascular infections. Brush your pet’s teeth regularly, use dental chews, toys, or powders, and schedule professional cleanings as needed.

6. Know Your Pet’s Breed Risks

Certain breeds are genetically predisposed to heart disease. Knowing your dog or cat’s risk factors can help you monitor more closely and take early action if symptoms arise.

Common Heart Conditions in Dogs

The most common heart issue in dogs is mitral valve disease, especially in small breeds. Other concerns include:

• Heart valve degeneration
• Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)
• Heart murmurs – These may be harmless or signal a more serious condition depending on their cause and severity.

Common Heart Conditions in Cats

In cats, cardiomyopathy—a disease of the heart muscle—is the most frequently diagnosed issue. It often develops in adult cats but can also appear in kittens. Other potential conditions include:

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
• Restrictive cardiomyopathy
• Heart murmurs, which can be benign or indicate more serious problems.
  

Signs of Heart Disease in Dogs and Cats

Early detection is essential. If your pet shows any of the following signs, contact your veterinarian for an evaluation:

• Coughing (especially at night or after activity)
• Fainting or collapse
• Rapid or labored breathing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or decreased activity
• Pale or bluish gums
• Swollen abdomen
• Loss of appetite
• Behavioral changes

These may be symptoms of congestive heart failure or other heart-related issues.

Keep Your Pet’s Heart Strong with Daily Wellness

Heart health doesn’t come from one single habit—it’s built through daily care. By offering a well-balanced diet, targeted supplements, regular exercise, stress management, and preventive vet visits, you’re laying the foundation for a strong, healthy heart. Watch for the signs of heart disease, and stay proactive in your care. With a few small changes, you can make a big difference in your pet’s quality of life and longevity.