How is atrioventricular valve dysplasia confirmed?

Echocardiography (ECHO) is often the main test, combined with chest X-rays and blood tests to assess heart structure and function. Imaging results should be interpreted by a veterinarian.

Does finding a heart murmur mean my pet has atrioventricular valve dysplasia?

A heart murmur is a common clue, but it is not a diagnosis by itself. Further echocardiography is needed to check the valve shape and any regurgitation, with testing arranged as your vet advises.

What can I observe at home to help the vet assess my pet?

Weigh your pet daily, record breathing when quiet and after activity, and track changes in food intake, alertness, and activity levels. Bring these records to your vet appointment for reference.

What is the prognosis for this type of disease?

The outlook depends on disease severity and response to treatment. Early detection and regular follow-up can improve quality of life, so discuss a monitoring plan with your vet.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Atrioventricular Valve Dysplasia in Dogs and Cats: Breathing Signs, Echocardiography & Home Care [2025]

Atrioventricular valve dysplasia is a congenital heart disease that can lead to heart failure and often requires long-term medication and monitoring.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Persistent difficulty breathing or open-mouth panting that cannot be relieved
•Sudden collapse or prolonged unresponsiveness
•Gums or tongue visibly purple or white

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Continuous weight loss or noticeable wasting for more than one week
•Significant decrease in daily activity or tires easily
•Faster breathing or worsening shortness of breath during sleep or rest

01What symptoms suggest something is wrong?

In dogs and cats, atrioventricular valve dysplasia often causes signs linked to impaired heart function, with breathing changes and changes in body condition commonly noticed in practice.

Gradual weight loss or obvious thinness
Difficulty breathing, open-mouth breathing, or rapid panting
Faster breathing during sleep or rest, or worsening panting
Reduced activity, tiring easily, or reluctance to move
Swollen abdomen (possible fluid build-up) or reduced appetite
Visible swelling in the limbs or abdomen

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Persistent difficulty breathing or open-mouth panting that does not settle
⚠️ Sudden collapse or being unresponsive for an extended period
⚠️ Gums or tongue that look clearly blue-purple or pale

02How can you assess abnormalities at home? Key monitoring points and emergency warning signs

Ongoing home observation and records can help your vet understand how the condition is changing and decide when your pet needs care.

Weigh your pet at the same time each day and record any changes
Use your phone to record breathing when your pet is quiet and after activity
Track changes in appetite, water intake, and toileting frequency
Watch for day-to-day differences in alertness and activity levels
Gently feel the abdomen for swelling or signs of pain
Bring all records and videos to the cardiology appointment

03How will a vet diagnose it? Common tests

Your vet will start with a physical examination and use imaging and blood tests to assess the valve abnormality and heart function.

Physical examination

listening for a heart murmur, palpation, and overall assessment

Echocardiography (ECHO)

assessing valve structure and function

Chest X-rays

checking heart size and changes in the lungs

Blood tests and biochemistry

assessing organ and metabolic status

Electrocardiography (ECG) or advanced imaging (CT/MRI) if needed

04How is it treated and managed after diagnosis? Medication, diet changes, and care guidance

Treatment focuses on easing signs and supporting heart function, with long-term follow-up and adjustments coordinated with a specialist where needed.

Medication to reduce strain on the heart and control signs (vet prescription required)
Diet adjustments: managing sodium intake and calories as advised by your vet
Home care: daily monitoring of breathing, activity, and weight changes
Regular rechecks to follow echocardiography findings and test results
Referral to a veterinary cardiologist for advanced assessment and care if needed

05What should you prepare before seeing the vet? Key information that helps clarify the cause

Prepare a timeline of when signs started and how they change day to day

Bring recent records of weight, food intake, and toileting

Prepare video clips of breathing at rest and after activity

List all current medicines and supplements

Bring previous heart-related test reports, if available

Book ahead with a clinic or specialist service that can perform cardiac imaging

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.