You and your Shih Tzu have a lot in common. Unfortunately, one of the issues that are shared is heart problems. This means that your Shih Tzu may be suffering from a heart condition and you might not recognize the symptoms. Getting heart issues treated quickly helps prevent further complications. What follows are some of the more common signs of heart issues with Shih Tzus.
Coughing
Your Shih Tzu may cough for a number of reasons, but if they are doing so after exercising or just before bedtime, that may be an indication of something wrong with their heart.
Fainting
Because the heart is not pumping the blood like it once did, less is reaching the brain. This leads to fainting, often when the Shih Tzu gets excited. This is one of the most commonly misunderstood symptoms of heart issues.
Fatigue
This is often accompanied by a change in behavior as your Shih Tzu does not want to play, does not walk or run around as much, and simply gets tired more easily.
Swollen Stomach
If you notice the belly of your Shih Tzu is swollen, that is often the sign of a heart problem. This is because fluid is building up in the organs which includes the lungs. If not treated, this leads to further complications.
Tongue
If their tongue or gums turn a blueish-gray color, it means that not enough blood is getting to that area.
Unexplained Vomiting
The vomiting is often caused by the pressure placed on the stomach by the buildup in the fluid. They will not want to eat as much because of the pressure, so the combination of poor appetite and vomiting is a clear sign of something being wrong.
The heart rate will often increase if there is something wrong. You can place your hand on their chest to see if it is racing. Another symptom is if your Shih Tzu is having a fever. If the temperature is at least 103.5 F, then your Shih Tzu is too hot and may be suffering from heart issues. You’ll need to check with your vet to identify the problem and get treatment for your pet.
Causes & Treatment
Your Shih Tzu may be suffering from heart issues for a number of reasons which includes the following;
- Injury
- Infection
- Lack of Exercise
- Old Age
- Poor Diet
There may be little you can do if your Shih Tzu is reaching the end of their lives, but you can prevent many heart issues from taking place with a combination of a healthy diet and proper exercise. Maintaining a healthy weight is also good as it places less pressure on their heart.
The most important thing you can do is pay attention to any troubling signs that your Shih Tzu might be exhibiting. If you notice any of the symptoms and they persist, call your vet and schedule an appointment. This may make all the difference in protecting your Shih Tzu from a possible heart condition.
