Pets' hearts demand care

Heart disease is among the main causes of morbidity in pets, especially in the elderly

The heart of a dog or cat works at an intense pace: it beats thousands of times a day, ensuring the functioning of the whole organism. When something goes wrong, the consequences can be serious and affect their well-being in a big way. That's why taking care of cardiovascular health should be part of your pet's prevention routine from an early age.

Although heart disease is more common in elderly animals, it can also appear in young adults and develop without any obvious symptoms. Early diagnosis is essential to avoid complications and ensure a longer, healthier life.

Subtle signs

Changes in behavior can indicate that the heart is not doing well. Tiredness, dry cough, shortness of breath, fainting and refusal to play are all signs that require attention. "Many heart diseases develop silently and by the time the guardian notices clear signs, the condition may already be advanced. That's why routine check-ups are essential for early diagnosis," explains Janaína Peres, veterinarian and product manager at Avert Saúde Animal.

Regular consultations and routine complementary tests, such as echocardiograms and electrocardiograms, help to identify alterations before they impact on quality of life.

A balanced diet is an ally of the heart

Diet plays a direct role in cardiovascular health. A balanced diet, with nutrients appropriate to age and physical condition, helps prevent excess weight and chronic diseases that overload the heart. "Animals that receive balanced diets, with nutrients appropriate to their age and physical condition, associated with regular physical activity, live longer and develop fewer chronic diseases," explains veterinary doctor and PhD in animal nutrition Luciana Oliveira.

According to her, an excess of snacks and homemade mixes without guidance encourages obesity, which speeds up degenerative processes and increases the risk of inflammation and premature ageing. She also recommends that dietary changes should always be monitored by a professional. "There is no single diet that suits all animals. The ideal is to adjust the type and quantity of food according to life stage, activity level and health history," she says.

For Luciana, longevity is directly related to quality of life. "A pet that reaches the age of 15 active, with good mobility and appetite, has probably had a balanced life. Food plays a central role in this result," she observes.

Omega-3, the friend of the cardiovascular system

Among the most studied nutrients for cardiac support is omega-3, a type of essential fat with anti-inflammatory action and a protective effect on blood vessels. A study published in PLOS One  found that dogs with mitral valve disease supplemented with omega-3 had a lower risk of arrhythmias and a slower progression of the disease.

The EPA and DHA components present in this nutrient act to regulate blood pressure and the electrical conduction of the heart, as well as benefiting the brain and eyes. Other research, published in Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine have shown that omega-3 reduces inflammatory substances and helps prevent the loss of muscle mass common in animals with heart failure.

It's worth remembering that any supplementation should be done under the guidance of a veterinarian.

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