Pimobendan, a benzimidazole-pyridazinone derivative, is a non-sympathomimetic, non-glycoside inotropic substance with potent vasodilatative properties. It increases calcium sensitivity of cardiac myofilaments and inhibits phosphodiesterase (type III). It also exhibits a vasodilatory action through inhibition of phosphodiesterase III activity.

As the bioavailability of pimobendan is considerably reduced when administered with or shortly after food, it is recommended that animals are treated approximately 1 hour before feeding.