Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)

Mitral Valve Disease, also known as Myxomatous Mitral Valve Degeneration, is a progressive heart condition primarily affecting older, small-breed dogs. The mitral valve leaflets thicken and become distorted, preventing a tight seal when the heart contracts. This causes blood to flow backward into the left atrium (regurgitation), increasing pressure and eventually leading to fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema) and congestive heart failure. Early signs are often subtle or absent, but as the disease progresses, owners might notice a cough, difficulty breathing, reduced exercise tolerance, or fainting spells. Diagnosis involves a physical exam to listen for a heart murmur, along with imaging like X-rays and echocardiograms to assess heart size and function. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression with medications, but there is no cure.