Early Signs of Heart Disease Every Pet Owner Should Know

“He just seems to be slowing down.”

We hear this often. A dog that tires halfway through a walk. A cat that sleeps more and plays less.

Heart disease rarely announces itself loudly at first. Instead, it whispers.

Changes pet owners often notice first

Not dramatic emergencies. Just small shifts:

• Your dog stops wanting long walks

• Your cat hides more or seems quieter

• Breathing seems faster while resting

• Appetite slowly decreases

• Energy fades over weeks or months

“Heart disease symptoms often appear gradually,” says Dr. Ivan Sosa-Samper, Veterinary Cardiologist at Boston West. “Families frequently think their pet is simply aging, when in reality the heart may be working harder than it should.”

Why early evaluation matters

When caught early, many heart conditions can be managed successfully. Treatment can slow disease progression and help pets maintain comfortable, active lives. If something feels different, trust that instinct. Early evaluation often means more options and better outcomes. At Boston West, heart care combines advanced medicine with compassionate guidance for families navigating new diagnoses. Expert Care. Local Heart.