Left-Sided Congestive Heart Failure (L-CHF)

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Key Points

Left-sided congestive heart failure (L-CHF) is a clinical syndrome that occurs when an underlying condition causes elevated left atrial pressure, leading to pulmonary venous congestion and pulmonary oedema
MMVD and DCM are the most common underlying causes in dogs with HCM as the most common in cats
Increased resting respiratory rate, dyspnoea, exercise intolerance and coughing are the most common clinical signs
- Acute decompensation can cause life-threatening respiratory distress
Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical exam findings and imaging
Long-term management requires diuretics, pimobendan, ACE inhibitors and continued monitoring
Owner education and home monitoring of resting respiratory rate are key for early detection of recurrence

Differential Diagnoses

Non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema
Pulmonary haemorrhage
Pulmonary neoplasia
Pulmonary thromboembolism

Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →