Heart disease is a common problem with our pets. Watch for the signs:

1. Cough can occur in many diseases. If a cough lasts longer than a day or two, you should seek medical help.
2. Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, labored breathing or rapid breathing should be checked out immediately. 
3. Exercise intolerance. Don't just assume that if your dog or cat isn't as playful they used to be that it is just age. It could be something more serious. 
4. Decreased appetite can be a great indicator that something wrong.
5. Fainting or collapse is a strong indication that you should bring your pet in ASAP. This can be a sign of a life-threating situation.
6. Weakness can be associated with many serious diseases. It is not normal for your pet to be weak.
7. Edema is when fluid pools in the body, most commonly in the legs.
8. Abdominal swelling can be a sign of fluid in the abdomen and organ swelling.
9. Disorientation can be caused by many things, one of which is lack of oxygen to the brain with heart disease.
10. Isolation. Instinctually, pets will hide when they are sick. They do this to protect their families from predators.           Early detection of disease can make a huge difference in your pet's length and quality of life.