Dilated cardiomyopathy
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DKM) is a heart disease that mainly affects large breeds of dog. The heart muscle becomes weak and can no longer pump enough blood through the body. This leads to symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, weakness and weight loss. In this article, you can find out more about the causes, diagnosis and treatment of DKM in dogs.
What are the causes of DKM in dogs?
The exact causes of DKM in dogs are not yet fully understood. However, there are some factors that can increase the risk of this disease. These include:
- Genetic predisposition: Some dog breeds are more likely to develop DKM than others. These include, for example, Dobermans, Boxers, Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds and Cocker Spaniels.
- Diet: Malnutrition or an incorrect composition of food can lead to a deficiency of certain nutrients that are important for heart health. These include, for example, taurine, carnitine and vitamin E.
- Infections: Some viruses or bacteria can attack the heart and lead to inflammation or damage to the heart muscle. These include, for example, parvoviruses, heartworms or borrelia.
- Medication: Some medications can impair heart function as a side effect or lead to an overdose. These include chemotherapeutic agents, antidepressants or painkillers, for example.
How is DKM diagnosed in dogs?
If you suspect that your dog is suffering from DKM, you should take him to a vet as soon as possible. The vet will perform a thorough examination and order various tests to make a diagnosis. These include:
- Blood test: A blood test can provide information about your dog's general health and provide clues about possible infections or nutritional deficiencies.
- X-ray: An X-ray can show if the heart is enlarged or if there are signs of fluid accumulation in the lungs.
- Echocardiography: An echocardiography is an ultrasound examination of the heart that shows the structure and function of the heart muscle and the heart valves. This allows the vet to determine how severely the heart is weakened and whether there are any other abnormalities.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG measures the heart's electrical impulses and shows if it has a normal rhythm or if there are arrhythmias.
How is DKM treated in dogs?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for DKM in dogs. Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms, improving quality of life and slowing the progression of the disease. Treatment will depend on the severity of the disease and your dog's general condition. Possible treatment options include:
- Medication: There are several medications your dog may need to take to support their heart. These include ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics or cardiac glycosides, for example. These medications can lower blood pressure, relieve the heart, reduce fluid retention or regulate the heart rhythm.
- Dietary changes: A healthy diet is very important for your dog to strengthen his heart and prevent further complications. You should make sure that your dog gets a high-quality food that contains sufficient taurine, carnitine and vitamin E. You should also reduce the salt content to lower blood pressure and prevent fluid retention. Your vet can recommend a special diet food or create a customized feeding plan for you.
- Exercise: Exercise is important for your dog to train his heart and strengthen his muscles. However, you should make sure that you don't overexert your dog or put him under too much stress. You should adapt the intensity and duration of the exercise to your dog's needs and abilities and take regular breaks. Your vet can give you tips on how to give your dog the best possible exercise.
- Check-ups: You should take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups to check their health and adjust their treatment. The vet will carry out various tests to assess heart function and the effect of medication. They will also give you advice on how to best care for your dog.
DKM is a serious heart disease that mainly affects large dog breeds. The disease can have various causes and lead to different symptoms. Diagnosis is based on a thorough examination and various tests. Treatment consists of medication, dietary changes, exercise and check-ups. Treatment can alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life and slow the progression of the disease, but cannot cure it.
The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.
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