What are the early symptoms I should look out for that might indicate my dog was developing heart trouble?
Answer; M.V.D is the commonest form of heart problem in Cavaliers – (M.V.D = mitral valve disease.) This is a degenerative disease sadly occurring in many Cavaliers but NOT all. It is a disease of the heart valves usually the Mitral valve which causes the valve to leak and the heart to enlarge often and work less efficiently. It can involve other heart valves too. If you have your pet checked up regularly by your vet your vet would be able to detect this condition by listening to your pets heart with a stethoscope. However early signs of MVD developing are; Lack of exercise tolerance your pet becomes more tired more quickly on walks. Coughing usually in the morning a soft cough rather like someone clearing their throat. Breathlessness and panting more than usual in warm weather. Slightly blue tinge to tongue and gums. In some dogs a swollen tummy due to a build up of fluid. MVD does NOT occur in puppies and if the vet says he/she detects a heart murmur in a puppy it is usually NOT MVD
