Congestive Heart Failure CHF

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition that results from severe heart disease in dogs.

Congestive heart failure is a confusing terminology because the word “failure” makes it sound like the heart is immediately dying or stopping.

This is not the case. Congestive heart failure essentially means that the heart can no longer compensate for the severe heart disease without medical intervention.

Medical intervention will also improve/resolve most clinical signs of congestive heart failure.

Signs of congestive heart failure include:
• cough
• increased respiratory rate and/or effort
• collapse with exercise (syncope)

How to Monitor

Sleep Respiratory Rate

♦ Count the number of times your pet’s chest goes up and down over 15 seconds. Multiply this number by 4 to obtain breaths per minute.
♦ A sleeping respiratory rate less than 30 breaths per minute is not consistent with congestive heart failure.
♦ A sleeping respiratory rate greater than 50 breaths per minute may indicate an emergency and your pet should be evaluated immediately.

Chest X-Rays

♦ Chest x-rays are taken to evaluate for the presence of pulmonary edema and to evaluate heart size.

Bloodwork

♦Many cardiac medications can adversely aect the kidneys. For this reason, it is important to monitor kidney function with blood tests as new medications are introduced or dosage changes are made.

Commonly Used Medications

Furosemide (Lasix): Furosemide is a diuretic used to treat heart failure, by removing fluid from the lungs. It commonly causes increased drinking and urination.
Spironolactone: Spironolactone is a weak diuretic and aldosterone antagonist which can help prevent retention of water and sodium.

Pimobendan (Vetmedin): Pimobendan is an inodilator: a combination of positive inotrope (improves contraction of the heart) and vasodilator (dilates blood vessels). This results in more ecient contraction of the heart.
ACE Inhibitor (Benazepril or Enalapril): An ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme) inhibitor is a type of medication that prevents the production of Angiotensin II which promotes increased blood pressure and fluid retention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is congestive heart failure?

Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart can no longer pump blood effectively, causing fluid to build up in or around the lungs (or sometimes the abdomen).

What causes CHF in dogs?

♦ Dogs: Most commonly due to valve disease (especially in small breeds) or dilated cardiomyopathy (larger breeds)

What are the signs I should watch for?

Coughing (more common in dogs)
Increased or labored breathing
Lethargy or decreased activity
Decreased appetite
Exercise intolerance
Distended abdomen (fluid buildup)
Sudden collapse (in severe cases)

Can CHF be cured?

CHF is typically not curable, but it is often manageable with medication and monitoring. Many pets maintain a good quality of life for months to years.

Will my pet need lifelong medication?

Yes, most pets with CHF require lifelong treatment and regular check-ups to adjust medications as needed.

How can I schedule an appointment?

Please call us at 720-510-7707 to book a consultation today.