What are the common symptoms of pulmonary hypertension in dogs and cats?

Common signs include reduced activity, rapid or laboured breathing, intermittent coughing, and decreased appetite. If you notice any of these, consult your vet promptly.

What tests will the vet use to confirm pulmonary hypertension?

Common tests include a physical examination, echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound), chest imaging (X-ray or CT), and blood tests. Advanced imaging or specific laboratory tests may be recommended as needed — follow your vet's guidance.

What can I observe at home to help with diagnosis?

Monitor daily changes in alertness, breathing pattern, coughing frequency, and body weight. Use your phone to record any breathing or coughing episodes to share with your vet at the appointment.

In what situations should I go to an emergency vet immediately?

Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if your pet experiences persistent severe breathing difficulty, repeated fainting episodes, or bluish or pale gums and mucous membranes.

How much do the tests and treatment for this condition usually cost?

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

Disease Guide

Pulmonary Hypertension in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Home Care [2025]

Pulmonary hypertension is an abnormal increase in blood pressure within the pulmonary vessels, often caused by heartworm disease, heart conditions, or lung disease. It leads to right-sided heart failure, exercise intolerance, and fainting. Medications such as sildenafil can help manage symptoms.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Rapid breathing with persistent labored respiratory effort
•Repeated fainting or sudden loss of consciousness with inability to recover
•Noticeably purple or pale gums and mucous membranes

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

•Markedly reduced activity level, frequent hiding, or unwillingness to play
•Worsening intermittent cough with a clearly increased frequency
•Ongoing weight loss or noticeably reduced appetite

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension in dogs and cats are often related to breathing difficulty and reduced exercise tolerance; early changes may be subtle.

Lethargy, noticeably reduced energy, or reluctance to run and play
Gradual weight loss or decreased appetite and food intake
Intermittent or progressively worsening cough
Rapid breathing, laboured breathing, or obvious respiratory distress
Possible swelling of the limbs or abdomen (oedema or ascites)
Record when symptoms occur and how often, then arrange a specialist evaluation

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Persistent or worsening difficulty breathing
⚠️ Fainting or brief loss of consciousness
⚠️ Gums or mucous membranes appearing bluish-purple or pale

02How can you assess the situation at home? Key observations and emergency warning signs

Systematic home observation provides your vet with valuable information to help determine whether further diagnostic testing is needed.

Record daily changes in alertness, activity level, and exercise tolerance
Weigh your pet regularly and track body weight trends alongside food intake
Use your phone to video any coughing episodes or rapid breathing
Note changes in appetite, water intake, and elimination habits
Record when symptoms started, how often they occur, and any apparent triggers
Seek veterinary care promptly if symptoms worsen or change suddenly

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

Diagnostic tests performed at the clinic help assess cardiopulmonary function, imaging changes, and likely underlying causes.

Physical examination

auscultation of the heart and lungs, assessment of breathing pattern and circulation

Echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound)

evaluation of heart structure and indicators related to pulmonary circulation pressure

Chest X-ray or CT scan

assessment of lung changes and heart size

Blood tests and biochemistry

evaluation of organ function and potential complications

Cytology or tissue biopsy

performed when a specific underlying cause is suspected

04How is the condition treated and managed after diagnosis? Medications, dietary adjustments, and care guide

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity; regular monitoring and consistent home care are essential to reduce cardiopulmonary strain.

Medications and supportive treatment require regular follow-up appointments for dose adjustments
Fluid therapy or supplemental oxygen may be provided as supportive care when needed
Manage weight and diet; avoid excessive exercise to reduce strain on the heart and lungs
Schedule regular imaging or ultrasound follow-ups to monitor the condition and treatment response
Continue monitoring breathing, coughing, and activity levels at home
Return to the clinic promptly or seek specialist referral if symptoms change or worsen

05What should you prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help your vet quickly identify the cause

Note when symptoms first appeared, how they have progressed, and your home observations

List all current medications, supplements, and their dosages

Bring video recordings of any coughing or breathing episodes for the vet to review

Prepare a recent weight log and a summary of your pet's diet and activity habits

Bring any previous imaging results or diagnostic reports for comparison

Mention when booking that a cardiology or respiratory specialist assessment is needed to help expedite the appointment

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.