Mitral Valve Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment & Cost

By the Pawlee Team

Diagnosis cost

£300–£800

Treatment cost

£1000–£12000

Ongoing cost

£50–£150 per month

Severity

Serious

Treatable

Manageable

Species

Dogs

What is mitral valve disease?

Mitral valve disease (MVD) is the most common heart condition in dogs, accounting for around 75% of all canine heart disease. The mitral valve, which sits between the left atrium and left ventricle, gradually degenerates and becomes leaky. This allows blood to flow backwards, making the heart work harder and eventually leading to congestive heart failure. The disease progresses slowly in most cases, but some dogs – particularly Cavalier King Charles Spaniels – can develop it at a young age.

Symptoms to watch for

See a vet soon

Coughing, particularly at night or early morning
Reduced tolerance for exercise and walks
Rapid or laboured breathing at rest
Fainting or collapsing during activity
Swollen abdomen due to fluid build-up
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Restlessness and inability to get comfortable
Blue-tinged gums in severe cases

How is mitral valve disease diagnosed?

Test	Typical cost
Consultation and cardiac auscultation	£35–£65
Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound)	£250–£500
Chest X-rays	£150–£300

Treatment options and costs

Medical management

£50–£150 per month ongoing

The standard approach for most dogs with MVD. Pimobendan is typically started when the heart begins to enlarge (stage B2). As the disease progresses, ACE inhibitors, diuretics such as furosemide, and spironolactone may be added. Medication can significantly extend life expectancy and improve quality of life.

Mitral valve repair surgery

£10,000–£12,000+

Open-heart surgery to repair the mitral valve is available at a small number of specialist centres in the UK. It offers the potential for a cure but carries significant surgical risk and cost. Typically only considered for dogs in the early stages of heart failure who are otherwise good candidates.

Emergency stabilisation for congestive heart failure

£1,000–£3,000

Dogs that develop acute congestive heart failure need urgent hospitalisation for intravenous diuretics, oxygen therapy, and stabilisation. Once stable, they are transitioned to ongoing oral medication at home.

Ongoing costs

Estimated ongoing management cost

£50–£150 per month

monthly

Breeds most at risk

Breed	Risk level
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel	High
Dachshund	Moderate
Jack Russell Terrier	Moderate
Shih Tzu	Moderate
Cocker Spaniel	Moderate
Whippet	Moderate
Cavapoo	Moderate

Does pet insurance cover mitral valve disease?

Mitral valve disease is covered by most lifetime pet insurance policies provided it was not pre-existing at the time the policy began. Given the progressive nature of MVD and the high cost of lifelong medication, a lifetime policy with a generous annual benefit limit is essential. Some specialist procedures like mitral valve repair surgery may require pre-authorisation. Be aware that some insurers impose breed-specific exclusions for heart conditions in high-risk breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Related conditions

Heart Murmur Dogs

Frequently asked questions

How much does mitral valve disease treatment cost over a dog’s lifetime?

Medical management typically costs £600–£1,800 per year in medication alone, plus £300–£800 annually for monitoring echocardiograms and blood tests. Over several years, total costs can easily reach £5,000–£10,000. Mitral valve repair surgery, where available, costs £10,000–£12,000+ but can be curative.

How long can a dog live with mitral valve disease?

It depends on the stage at diagnosis and how well the dog responds to treatment. Dogs diagnosed in the early stages (before heart failure) can live 2–4 years or more with medication. Once congestive heart failure develops, average survival with treatment is around 9–12 months, though some dogs do much better. Early detection through regular vet checks makes a real difference.

Why are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels so affected by MVD?

Cavaliers have a strong genetic predisposition to MVD. Studies suggest that almost all Cavaliers will develop some degree of mitral valve disease by age 10, and many show signs much earlier. Responsible breeders use heart screening protocols to reduce the risk, but the condition remains extremely common in the breed.

Is mitral valve surgery available in the UK?

Yes, but it is only offered at a very small number of specialist centres. The surgery requires open-heart techniques with cardiopulmonary bypass, similar to human heart surgery. It costs £10,000–£12,000+ and not every dog is a suitable candidate. Success rates at experienced centres are good, but availability is limited and waiting lists can be long.