From Heart Disease to Healing: Recovery After TEER Procedure

A dog’s heart condition is often first detected after changes such as reduced energy, laboured breathing, or difficulty on walks are noticed, followed by a veterinary diagnosis to confirm the heart problem. For some dogs with heart disease that no longer respond well to medication, further intervention may be considered. At this stage, treatment goals often shift toward directly reducing strain on the heart and improving circulation.

In these situations, a minimally invasive procedure called Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER) may be recommended to reduce mitral valve leakage. This type of valve problem is most commonly seen in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD). Once the procedure is complete, the focus shifts to recovery, where careful monitoring and structured aftercare help the heart adapt and heal. Knowing what to expect during this period allows owners to better support their dog’s comfort, stability, and long-term heart health.

What to Expect for Your Pet After the TEER Procedure

After the TEER procedure, your pet will remain at the veterinary clinic for close monitoring to ensure heart function remains stable. Most pets are hospitalised for one to three days, allowing the care team to manage any immediate post-procedural concerns and support a steady recovery. During this period, attention is focused on several key areas.

• Cardiac Monitoring

  Your pet’s heart rhythm is monitored closely to detect arrhythmias or abnormal heartbeats, which can occasionally occur after mitral valve repair. Continuous observation allows the veterinary team to respond promptly if any irregularities arise.

• Breathing and Oxygen Levels

  Respiratory patterns are carefully observed for changes such as rapid breathing, increased effort, or signs of discomfort. Breathing difficulties may indicate fluid accumulation or added strain on the heart, and intervention is provided as needed.

• Chest Comfort and Pain Management

  Although TEER is minimally invasive, some pets may experience mild discomfort following the procedure. Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications are administered to keep your pet comfortable and to support the healing process.

• Access-Site Observation

  The catheter insertion site is checked regularly for swelling, bleeding, or signs of infection. Gentle handling and routine inspection help reduce the risk of complications during the early recovery period.

• Fluid and Appetite Monitoring

  Hydration and appetite are monitored as your pet begins to regain strength. The care team will guide the gradual reintroduction of food and ensure your pet maintains a balanced fluid status.

Most pets begin walking and eating normally within two to three days after the procedure. Full recovery and a return to usual energy levels typically occur within two to four weeks, depending on factors such as age, underlying heart disease, and any activity restrictions advised by your veterinarian.

Carefully following discharge instructions supports a smooth transition to home care and helps maintain heart stability while your pet continues to recover.

At-Home Care for Pets Following the TEER Procedure

Recovery continues at home once your pet is discharged from the clinic, and attentive aftercare plays an important role in protecting heart function and supporting healing. Following your veterinary team’s instructions closely helps reduce the risk of complications and allows the heart to adapt safely after the procedure.

The first few weeks at home are especially important. Consistency in daily care, medication routines, and activity management supports a smoother recovery and helps maintain long-term heart stability.

• Medication Adherence

  Your pet may be prescribed a combination of anticoagulants, antibiotics, and heart medications following the TEER procedure. These medications are carefully selected to support healing, prevent complications, and reduce strain on the heart. Administer all medications exactly as directed and avoid skipping or adjusting doses without veterinary advice. Keeping a written or digital schedule can help ensure doses are given accurately and on time.

• Access-Site Care

  The catheter entry site should be checked daily for redness, swelling, or discharge. Mild bruising may be expected, but any changes that worsen or fail to improve should be reported to your veterinarian. If your pet attempts to lick or scratch the area, a soft recovery collar can help protect the site and reduce irritation while healing progresses.

• Activity Restrictions

  Rest is essential during the initial recovery period, typically lasting two to three weeks after discharge. During this time, your pet should avoid running, jumping, climbing stairs, or other strenuous activity. Short, controlled leash walks may be permitted if approved by your vet. Limiting activity helps reduce physical strain and allows the heart and blood vessels time to adjust following the repair.

• Diet and Weight Management

  Nutrition plays an important role in both recovery and long-term heart care. Your vet may recommend a low-sodium diet to help minimise fluid retention and reduce cardiac workload. Any dietary changes should be introduced gradually, with close monitoring of appetite and digestion. Maintaining a healthy, stable weight also supports heart function and reduces the risk of future complications.

• Behavioural and Physical Monitoring

  Carefully observe your pet’s behaviour and energy levels during recovery. Mild tiredness is common at first, but ongoing or worsening lethargy, coughing, breathing difficulty, or loss of appetite should be discussed with your veterinary clinic promptly. Early communication allows concerns to be addressed before they progress.

• Follow-Up Visits

  Follow-up appointments are an essential part of recovery after TEER. Your vet may schedule follow-up imaging, such as a pet ultrasound (echocardiogram), to assess valve repair success and heart function. In some cases, an animal CT scan may also be advised to provide detailed visualisation of cardiac structures or catheter sites. These visits allow your veterinarian to fine-tune medications and confirm proper healing.

When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care

While most pets recover smoothly after the TEER procedure, certain signs may indicate complications that require urgent attention. Contact an emergency veterinary clinic immediately if you notice sudden or significant changes in your pet’s condition.

Seek prompt veterinary care if your pet shows any of the following:

• Gasping or sudden, severe difficulty breathing
• Collapse or fainting (syncope)
• Persistent or severe coughing fits
• Uncontrolled bleeding or significant, spreading swelling at the catheter site
• Complete refusal of food for over 24 hours (anorexia)
• Extreme sluggishness (lethargy) or unresponsiveness
• Fever or other obvious signs of infection

These symptoms may signal increased strain on the heart, complications at the catheter site, or infection, and in some cases may be associated with worsening heart function or congestive heart failure. Acting quickly allows the veterinary team to assess the situation and provide appropriate treatment as early as possible.

Trust Advanced VetCare to Support Your Pet’s Heart Recovery

Recovery after the TEER procedure is a gradual process that relies on careful observation, consistent aftercare, and ongoing veterinary support. While the procedure helps reduce strain on the heart, following medication schedules, managing activity, monitoring changes at home, and attending follow-up visits are all essential in supporting heart stability and long-term comfort. Each pet’s recovery journey is unique, and maintaining open communication with your veterinary team allows care to be adjusted as needed, helping to achieve the best possible outcome.

At Advanced Vetcare, our team is experienced in supporting pets through recovery after advanced cardiac procedures such as TEER. Led by Dr Nicholas Woo, we take a careful, individualised approach to post-procedural care, with close monitoring and clear guidance at every stage. If you would like advice about your pet’s recovery or need ongoing heart care support, arrange an appointment with our 24-hour animal clinic to discuss the next steps for your pet’s health and well-being.