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Right-Sided Congestive Heart Failure (R-CHF)
CardiovascularAll SpeciesNew
Key Points
  • Right-sided congestive heart failure (R-CHF) is a syndrome that occurs when the right ventricle is no longer able to fill or eject blood effectively, leading to systemic venous congestion
    • Congestion causes effusions to build up in peripheral tissues and body cavities
  • Abdominal distension, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are the key clinical signs
  • Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and imaging to identify fluid accumulation and underlying causes
  • Long-term management includes diuretics, pimobendan and vasodilators to reduce cardiac workout and congestion
    • Thoracocentesis can be a life-saving procedure in patients with severe respiratory distress
  • Owner education and at-home monitoring are key for early detection of progression
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Hypoalbuminaemia
  2. 1º liver disease
  3. Neoplasia
  4. Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)
Overview
Aetiology
Clinical Signs
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Overview

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Aetiology

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Clinical Signs

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Prevention

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Resources

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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 →