Heart murmurs in older dogs may not always go away, as they can be caused by an underlying health condition. However, some heart murmurs can resolve on their own over time, while others may require medication, a specialised diet, and regular vet visits for monitoring. It’s important to consult with your vet for an accurate diagnosis and recommendations for treatment.
How long can older dogs live with a heart murmur?
The prognosis for dogs with heart murmurs varies depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the murmur. Generally speaking, older dogs with a heart murmur can live a good, healthy life with the right treatment and lifestyle modifications. However, the median survival time for dogs with concurrent arrhythmias or heart failure is 6 months. Some dogs may live longer or shorter depending on the individual case, so it is important to consult a veterinarian for a more accurate prognosis.
Can an older dog live with a heart murmur?
Yes, an older dog can live with a heart murmur. However, the prognosis depends on the severity of the murmur and the underlying cause. In many cases, dogs with mild murmurs can live comfortably for many years with proper management and treatment. If the murmur is caused by a structural problem in the heart, such as a leaky mitral valve, the prognosis is less favorable. In these cases, the murmur will likely get louder over time, and the dog may need additional treatment and lifestyle modifications to maintain their quality of life.
How serious is a heart murmur in an older dog?
Heart murmurs in older dogs can be serious, depending on the underlying cause. In many cases, the murmur is caused by mitral valve disease, which can lead to heart failure if left untreated. Other potential causes of heart murmurs in older dogs include infection, systemic disease, heart enlargement, and congenital heart defects. If your dog has been diagnosed with a heart murmur, it is important to have them evaluated by a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and determine the best course of treatment.
Can heart murmurs disappear in dogs?
Yes, heart murmurs can disappear in dogs. In some cases, the murmurs may be benign and resolve on their own. In other cases, the murmurs may be caused by an underlying condition, such as anemia or heartworm disease, and resolving the condition may cause the murmur to disappear. Additionally, some murmurs in puppies may disappear spontaneously by 14 weeks of age.