What clinical finding would you associate with congestive heart failure?

Coughing and exercise intolerance are common clinical findings associated with congestive heart failure (CHF) in both humans and animals. In CHF, the heart's ability to pump blood effectively is compromised, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary congestion) and reduced ability to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the body's tissues.

Coughing occurs as a result of this fluid buildup in the lungs, which can irritate the airways. The cough may often be more pronounced during or after exercise when the heart is working harder to meet increased oxygen demands. Additionally, exercise intolerance is a direct consequence of the heart’s inability to adequately support physical activity, leading to fatigue and reduced stamina.

The other options present findings that do not align with the typical clinical presentation of CHF. For instance, excessive grooming behaviors might indicate anxiety or dermatological conditions rather than heart failure. Increased appetite and weight gain would typically be inconsistent with CHF, as patients often experience a reduced appetite due to systemic effects of heart disease. A dull coat and normal breathing could suggest a different illness or issue that is not related to the fluid overload and cardiac compensation seen in CHF.