An innocent or physiologic heart murmur is a heart murmur that has no impact on the dog's health.
How common are innocent heart murmurs in puppies?
A soft “innocent” murmur in puppies before 14 weeks of age can be quite common. In one study, one in ten puppies were found to have a soft murmur! Puppies have a lower red blood cell concentrating – leading to altered blood viscosity. For that reason, animals with anaemia are also known to have a soft heart murmur.
Is it bad if a puppy has a heart murmur?
If you have a new puppy or kitten: Loud heart murmurs (Grade 3-4/6 to 6/6) in a new puppy or kitty and soft heart murmurs that persist beyond 14-16 weeks of age should be evaluated by a cardiologist. This may indicate that congenital (present at birth) heart disease is present.
How long can a puppy live with a heart murmur?
Many dogs live a long time after being diagnosed with a heart murmur, and some can even live years after being diagnosed with heart failure. If you have any questions or concerns about murmurs, please contact your veterinarian.
Can you outgrow an innocent heart murmur?
Innocent heart murmurs may go away over time. Sometimes, heart murmurs continue for life without causing serious health problems.
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