Changes

==Signalment==

==Signalment==

Endocardiosis tends to affect middle-aged and older dogs, with males being predisposed. Breeds with particular predisposition to the disease include smaller breeds

Degenerative mitral valve disease tends to affect middle-aged and older dogs, with males being predisposed. The disease more commonly affects small breed dogs, with Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Boston Terriers, Poodles, Pomeranians and Bull Terriers being predisposed. The disease is also recognized in large breed dogs.  

such as Chihuahuas, Boston Terriers, Poodles, Pomeranians, Bull Terriers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and larger breeds such as the German Shepherd and Great Danes. It is the most common heart condition in dogs. In dogs over 9 years old 97% show lesions, of which approximately 40% are clinically significant. The condition is often found at post mortem as an incidental age related change. The disease is rare in cats.

===History===

===History===

Animals may remain asymptomatic for years. Typical reported signs include exercise intolerance and dyspnoea as a result of reduced cardiac output and a ventilation perfusion mismatch due to pulmonary oedema. A progressive cough often during rest or recumbency is frequently seen and needs to be distinguished from primary respiratory disease. Sudden death is possible due to a left atrial tear or advanced pulmonary oedema.  

Animals may remain asymptomatic for years. Typical reported signs include exercise intolerance and dyspnoea as a result of reduced cardiac output and a ventilation perfusion mismatch due to pulmonary oedema. A progressive cough often during rest or recumbency is frequently seen and needs to be distinguished from primary respiratory disease. Sudden death is possible due to a left atrial tear or advanced pulmonary oedema.

== Clinical Signs ==

== Clinical Signs ==