Mitral Valve Disease (Heart Murmurs/Heart Disease) in Dogs and Cats

Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD)

The most common heart disease in dogs, especially small and older breeds, in which the mitral valve degenerates, thickens, and no longer closes properly. This allows blood to leak backward within the heart, and is usually first detected as a heart murmur.

Symptoms

A heart murmur detected during a veterinary exam, often the first and only sign for a long time
Coughing, especially at night or after exercise
Rapid or labored breathing
Fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance
Decreased appetite
Fainting episodes in advanced cases

Causes

Degenerative thickening of the mitral valve, most common with age
Genetic predisposition in breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and Miniature Poodles
More common in small to medium-sized dogs and in males
Exact underlying trigger of the degeneration is still not fully understood

Treatments

Regular monitoring with X-rays or echocardiograms to track heart enlargement
Medications to delay progression once the heart begins to enlarge
Additional heart failure medications once symptoms of congestive heart failure appear
No cure, but early diagnosis and treatment can significantly extend quality of life and lifespan

This condition is common in the following Dogs & Cats

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