What is a heart murmur?
A heart murmur is an unusual sound that indicates abnormal blood flow through the heart. Heart murmurs (sometimes called cardiac murmurs) are often associated with structural abnormalities that interrupt normal blood flow in the heart. In some situations (like in young or athletic pets), they can also be “innocent” or normal. Murmur intensity can change with heart rate, dehydration, fever, stress, or preexisting conditions like lung or heart disease. Diagnosing the underlying cause of a heart murmur is critical, as it may indicate a life-threatening disease. In young animals, murmurs may be “innocent” and will generally disappear as they grow.
What does it look like?
Common signs:
- Fatigue
- Decreased appetite
- Vomiting
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
How is the cause diagnosed?
Your vet will listen to your pet’s heart through a stethoscope, and evaluate:
- Clinical signs, like difficulty breathing
- Physical exam results
- X-rays
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Echocardiogram (cardiac ultrasound)
How is it treated?
Treatment varies widely depending on the underlying cause, and focuses on preventing or managing heart failure.
- Medications and dietary changes can help the heart function more efficiently
- Severe heart conditions may require surgical treatment or implanting a cardiac pacemaker
How to help your pet
- Administer all medications as prescribed
- Monitor your pet’s progress carefully and schedule checkups as recommended
- Contact your veterinary team with any questions