Matters of the Heart: Quiet Clues about Your Pet’s Heart Health
One of the sneaky things about heart disease in pets is that it’s often very quiet at first. A lot of dogs and cats with early heart issues still eat normally, act happy, and don’t look “sick” at all.
That’s why vets tend to catch it before pet parents do. During an exam, we’re listening closely for things like heart murmurs or rhythm changes—sounds you can’t see, but that tell us something might be developing. We also pay attention to how easily a pet gets tired. If a dog who used to go forever on walks now needs more breaks, or a cat is moving a little less than they used to, that can be a small but meaningful clue.
At home, these changes can be easy to miss. Slower walks, less interest in play, or heavier breathing after mild activity often get chalked up to age, weather, or personality. And honestly, that makes sense. Pets are very good at adapting—and cats are especially good at hiding when something feels off. Some early signs can also include persistent coughing, especially in dogs—but coughing can have many causes, which is why we always recommend checking in with a veterinarian rather than trying to self-diagnose.
The upside is that noticing heart disease early gives you options. Monitoring and treatment can help pets stay comfortable and active longer. So if your vet ever mentions a heart murmur, or your pet just seems a little less energetic than before, it’s not a reason to panic. It’s simply a reason to pay attention and check in.
What you can do at home
Pay attention to small changes in your pet’s energy and stamina. If walks are getting shorter, playtime ends sooner, or your pet seems more tired than usual, make a mental note—even if it feels subtle. Keep routines consistent so changes are easier to notice, and mention any shifts to your vet, especially in senior pets. Avoid pushing pets to “keep up” if they seem winded, and let them set the pace. And if your vet ever mentions a heart murmur, follow up as recommended — monitoring early is often more helpful than waiting.
TL;DR
Early heart disease often has no obvious signs
Vets listen for murmurs and watch for changes in stamina
Small shifts at home can matter more than you think
Persistent coughing can be a clue—but see a vet; do not self-diagnose
Early monitoring helps pets stay comfortable longer