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 serious is a heart murmur in puppies?
A heart murmur occurs when there is turbulent blood flow within the heart. Some murmurs, especially those found in young puppies, can be 'innocent' or 'physiologic' and will have no negative effects on your dog's health. Young puppies with innocent heart murmurs will usually outgrow them by about 5 months.
Can a puppy live with a heart murmur?
Many dogs and cats with heart murmurs will live long, happy, healthy lives. They may never need treatment for heart disease. For some, the murmur can indicate something more serious. Further testing can determine whether your pet needs treatment.
How do you treat a puppy with a heart murmur?
When it comes to the treatment of a heart murmur, a veterinarian will look to treat the underlying cause and the symptoms associated with it. Medical treatment may include a change in diet, exercise restrictions, and medication. In the case of young puppies and murmurs, they may often resolve on their own.
Should I get a puppy with an innocent heart murmur?
The presence of a heart murmur in a puppy could signify congenital disease with a spectrum of possibilities, ranging from mild disease with no clinical significance to severe, possibly intractable disease. However, not all murmurs are pathologic and 'innocent' murmurs are frequent in young puppies.
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