Dilated Cardiomyopathy Basics in Dogs and Cats

Rapid Algorithm

• Identify high-risk signalment and clinical signs consistent with reduced systolic function.
• Screen for arrhythmia and perfusion instability while planning cardiac imaging.
• Use echo and thoracic context to confirm ventricular dilation and functional impact.
• Establish stage-aware treatment and follow-up priorities.
• Track response using rhythm, respiratory effort, and perfusion markers.

Diagnostic Flow

• Echocardiography is central for structural and functional confirmation.
• ECG and rhythm monitoring are high value because arrhythmias are common.
• Thoracic imaging helps evaluate pulmonary and pleural consequences.
• Laboratory context supports concurrent disease assessment and medication planning.
• Serial data helps distinguish progression from transient instability.

Treatment Flow

• Match therapy to stage, congestion status, and perfusion profile.
• Address rhythm instability promptly when hemodynamics are affected.
• Use owner-centered monitoring plans for respiratory and activity changes.
• Reassess medication tolerance with renal and electrolyte surveillance.
• Escalate follow-up frequency when relapse risk increases.

Exam Traps

• Relying on murmur intensity alone can miss advanced DCM with subtle auscultation findings.
• Skipping rhythm evaluation in weak or syncopal patients is a common miss.
• Underestimating pleural involvement can delay respiratory support planning.
• Ignoring trend-based follow-up leads to late recognition of deterioration.
• Confusing primary myocardial dysfunction with valvular-only disease changes management.

Practice Prompts

• Which signalment clues should increase suspicion for DCM?
• How do ECG findings alter DCM triage urgency?
• What follow-up data best tracks response to CHF therapy in DCM?
• How can DCM and valvular disease be separated in workup?
• Which decompensation signs should trigger immediate recheck?

Related Content

• Return to NAVLE Topics (Cardiology and CHF are under Topics)
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• Pimobendan and Diuretics in CHF: Educational Overview
• Use the CHF Staging Planner
• Try 5 free practice questions on this topic
• Unlock unlimited practice (Premium)

Sources and Review Notes

• Drug label search (DailyMed)
• IRIS stages
• Normal lab values
• Heartworm treatment protocol
• Lab test protocols
• Microchip lookup
• Vertebral Heart Score
• BCS charts
• ACVIM cardiology consensus guideline references
• Dental charts
• AAHA vaccination guidelines
• Flea/tick product info
• Dog/cat breed search
• RECOVER CPR guidelines

Last reviewed: February 13, 2026