Chronic Valvular Disease

What is Chronic Valvular Disease?
Chronic Valvular Disease is a disease usually found in older dogs that occurs as a result of degenerative changes of the mitral valve located between the left atrium and ventricle in the heart.  The tricuspid valve is affected less frequently.  The valve changes lead to chronic changes to heart function and eventually heart failure.  5% of dogs between 5 and 7 years old while more than 35% of dogs over twelve have Chronic Valvular Disease.

How does my dog get Chronic Valvular Disease?
As a part of the normal aging process, the sharp edges of the valves are thickened, distorted and stiffened. The valve then can’t close completely and secondary changes associated abnormal blood flow within the heart occur. There are certain breeds predisposed to chronic valvular disease, however in most cases the cause is aging.

How do I know if my dog has Chronic Valvular Disease?
By the time you are aware that your dog has Chronic Valvular Disease, the damage is done. Your veterinarian will notice the first signs. These will usually be a heart murmur at a specific location on your dog’s chest. The loudness of the murmur will progress as the condition worsens. The first signs that you may notice include: coughing, exercise intolerance, and labored breathing when exercised. The progression of the disease will lead to labored breathing at any time. At the end, labored breathing in conjunction with profound weakness, fainting, a distended abdomen, and coughing are common. Early detection and treatment are imperative. Your veterinarian will examine your dog, take radiographs, and blood samples to make the preliminary diagnosis. Additional diagnostic procedures that may be required include an EKG and ultrasound.

What can I do about Chronic Valvular Disease?
Once diagnosed treatment of chronic valvular disease is directed at slowing the progression of a an incurable but controllable condition. Medications that work to make the heart a more effective pump, medications that keep fluid from accumulating in the chest, exercise alterations, and dietary modifications are all part of the treatment regime. Each case is evaluated as to its severity and the treatment must be determined for that particular case. This condition is progressive, incurable, and may eventually be terminal.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my dog from getting Chronic Valvular Disease?
There is no real preventative measures although there is a predilection in obese animals and certain breeds are pre-disposed.

Are there certain breeds that get Chronic Valvular Disease more often?
Cavalier King Charles, Chihuahua, miniature poodle, miniature pinscher, whippet, other toy breeds.