Bovine Congestive Heart Failure Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Congestive heart failure (CHF) in cattle represents the terminal manifestation of various cardiac diseases. Unlike small animals where left-sided failure predominates, right-sided heart failure is more common in cattle due to anatomy and common disease processes. The major causes include traumatic pericarditis (most common, greater than 80% of cases), bacterial endocarditis, bovine high mountain disease (brisket disease), cor pulmonale, and monensin toxicosis.

Heart disease in cattle is challenging to diagnose and treat due to low incidence and typically guarded to poor prognosis. Understanding these conditions is essential for NAVLE success.

Pathophysiology of Bovine CHF

Heart failure occurs when compensatory mechanisms become overwhelmed. The progression: initial cardiac insult leads to compensatory responses (neurohormonal activation, chamber dilation, hypertrophy), followed by decompensation.