The main reason diabetics are cautious when it comes to potatoes is their very high glycemic index (GI) value. The glycemic index is important for diabetics because it is a measure of the impact a particular food has on blood glucose levels once it has been digested.
The two most common causes of congestive heart failure in dogs are mitral valve insufficiency and dilated cardiomyopathy. In cats, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common heart disease. Genetic predisposition is clearly the most common underlying reason for the development of congestive heart failure.
Congestion of the lungs and fluid accumulation are common. Fluid can also build up in the abdomen and around the lungs, if the right side of the heart is also involved. Congestion and fluid buildup indicate heart failure. Dogs with DCM-induced heart failure often have left-sided congestive failure. Symptoms include decreased ability to exercise, tiring quickly, increased respiration, and excessive panting and coughing. There may be recurrences of sudden episodes of weakness or fainting.