Maltese With an Enlarged Heart on Lasix Only

Yes. For heart failure from mitral valve disease, the most common heart disease in Maltese, specialist guidelines recommend pimobendan, usually an ACE inhibitor and often spironolactone alongside a diuretic such as Lasix. Your vet may want an echocardiogram first to confirm the cause, because treatment differs for other heart problems.

You can ask your vet for a written prescription so you can compare prices; many vets will provide one. If the cost of an ultrasound is a problem, ask whether X-rays and an NT-proBNP blood test could guide treatment for now. If cost is a worry, ask your vet about a payment plan, or look for a low-cost clinic, humane society clinic or veterinary school near you.

See congestive heart failure in dogs for more on treatment.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.