Description: A progressive disease of the heart characterized by the failure of the mitral valve to properly close leading to backflow of blood. When the blood flows backward, the heart needs to exert more work to propel the blood forward. Mitral Valve Insufficiency exerts an influence on the blood pressure of the right side of the heart and on the lungs. The occurrence of high blood pressure in the lungs can drive fluid from the blood vessels into the surrounding tissues causing the dog to cough in an effort to clear the fluid from the respiratory passages. A dog with Mitral Valve Insufficiency often coughs after exercise or after getting up from sleep. Early detection of the condition can help retard the development and progress of the disease. Your veterinarian may prescribe medications that can reduce the amount of accumulated fluid within the lungs. A low-sodium diet will also help reduce the symptoms. However, these medications will not get rid of the condition rather it will just slow down the disease process.

Breeds Commonly Affected: American Water Spaniel, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Havanese, Keeshond