Question 1

What is a Heart Murmur in Dogs?

Accepted Answer

A heart murmur is a type of abnormal sound caused by turbulent blood flow through the heart. Your vet may notice a murmur when listening to your dog's heart with a stethoscope. While a normal heart makes a typical lub-dub as the heart contracts and relaxes to pump blood through the body, a heart murmur sounds less crisp and may have a whooshing quality. There are many different types and causes of heart murmurs in dogs, ranging in severity from completely benign to life-threatening, therefore treatment recommendations and prognosis vary widely.

Question 2

What Causes Heart Murmurs in Dogs?

Accepted Answer

There are many possible causes of heart murmurs in dogs. Some, known as innocent murmurs, are not concerning and have no effect on your dog's health, while others are more severe. These heart murmurs can be caused by an issue within the heart itself or a disease process elsewhere in the body.

Question 3

How is a Heart Murmur Diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

A heart murmur is an abnormal heart sound with many possible causes. The murmur itself is heard when a vet listens to your dog's heart with a stethoscope. If your vet hears a heart murmur, they will grade and classify it as discussed above. They will review your dog's history and perform a thorough physical exam to determine if any other signs or symptoms of heart disease are present and may recommend additional testing, including some or all of the following. Some of these tests may be done by your vet, or you may be referred to a cardiologist.

Question 4

How is a Heart Murmur Treated?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the severity and underlying cause, treatment recommendations will vary widely. Dogs with innocent murmurs will not need any treatment, and puppies often outgrow this type of murmur. Other types of heart murmurs may not require treatment initially but have the potential to progress to more advanced heart disease and/or heart failure. Therefore monitoring with routine vet visits is very important. If a murmur is severe and/or already causing signs of heart disease, then treatment, including medications, diet, and supportive care, may be indicated. Sometimes, surgery with a specialis

Question 5

What Is The Prognosis Of a Heart Murmur?

Accepted Answer

Prognosis depends greatly on the underlying cause and severity. The age and overall health of your dog will also play a role. While heart murmurs can be an overwhelming topic, many dogs go on to live normal healthy lives. If the underlying cause is more serious, discussing treatment options and long-term management with your vet will be important.

Question 6

Can Heart Murmurs in Dogs be Prevented?

Accepted Answer

A heart murmur is a symptom of an underlying issue and cannot be prevented in most cases. You can help keep your dog's heart healthy by using year-round heartworm preventatives, keeping their teeth clean with at-home dental care and dental cleanings under anesthesia with your vet, and feeding your dog a complete and balanced diet. Grain-free diets have recently been associated with heart disease in dogs.

Question 7

What is the Cost of Treating a Heart Murmur?

Accepted Answer

Much of the cost associated with heart murmurs are due to diagnostic tests and monitoring, which will vary based on what is necessary for your individual dog, your vet clinic, location, and whether you are referred to a cardiologist. Long-term medication can also be costly in some cases, and your veterinarian will be able to provide you with a detailed estimate.

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