Cardiology Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my pet need to see a veterinary cardiologist?
We know how much you care about your pet, and it’s completely natural to feel concerned. Your veterinarian has recommended a visit to a veterinary cardiologist because they suspect a heart condition that needs specialized attention. Our aim is to extend your pet’s symptom-free life and lessen the impact of any heart disease on their quality of life and lifespan. By providing a detailed assessment and a personalized treatment plan, we’re here to support your pet’s heart health every step of the way.
What should I expect during the appointment?
At the appointment, the cardiologist will go over your pet’s medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination. Most pets will receive an echocardiogram—a special ultrasound of the heart—along with an electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate heart function. If we need to consider any additional advanced diagnostics, we’ll discuss those options with you in detail. Throughout the visit, we’ll explain each step and are here to answer any questions you might have.
How can I prepare my pet for the visit?
To help your pet feel at ease, please bring along any familiar items like a favorite toy or blanket. Family members are welcome to join, including other pets if they provide support. If possible, avoid giving your pet a heavy meal right before the appointment, as some tests are easier when they’re not too full. Also, please bring a list of any medications your pet is taking and details about their diet. We’re dedicated to making this experience as comfortable as possible for both you and your pet.
My pet has a heart murmur - what should I do?
A heart murmur is a harsh heart sound caused by turbulent blood flow. Murmurs can be caused by a leaky valve, shunt, or fast blood flow in the heart. To find out the cause of a murmur we perform an ultrasound of heart (also known as an echocardiogram). This test will tell whether the murmur can be ignored, monitored or would benefit from medical or surgical treatment. It is a painless test where an ultrasound probe is placed on the side of the chest while the animal is laying on its side on a table. You can be present during the ultrasound and see the images in real time.
My animal has an irregular rhythm - what should I do?
An irregular heart rhythm is also called an arrhythmia. This is investigated with an electrocardiogram. This is different than an ECHOcardiogram (which is an ultrasound of the heart), instead the ELECTROcardiogram (or ECG) assesses the electrical activity of the heart. There can be many reasons for a heart rhythm to be irregular, from normal fluctuations to insidious arrhythmias which can result in sudden cardiac death. The ECG is the best first step to assess the rhythm but often you also need to check the structure of the heart with an ultrasound of the heart. We also have the ability to monitor the rhythm for 24 hours while at home (Holter monitor) or if needed, implant a device to monitor the heart rhythm for up to 5 years (Loop recorded).
My puppy/kitten has a murmur - what should I do?
There are only two general reasons for a puppy or kitten to have a murmur: Physiological (“normal”) or congenital heart disease. Most soft murmurs are physiological which should disappear by 6 months of age. If a soft murmur is heard in your puppy or kitten, it is reasonable to wait and have another auscultation at 6 months. If it is still present at 6 months and it is a moderate/loud murmur or you just want to have the peace of mind and have it checked, in order to diagnose the cause of the murmur you need to perform an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart). This is performed in the consult room with you and your pet so you can see the cause of the murmur.
I have a Doberman and have heard they get heart disease - what should I do?
Unfortunately, Dobermans do have a high prevalence of heart disease with over 50% of dogs developing DCM within their lifespan according to a European study. DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy) is a cardiac disease where the heart develops poor contractility and dilates in size. This can lead to consequences such as collapse, heart failure and sudden death. Because of the high prevalence of disease, the recommendation is to have an annual echocardiogram and Holter (24-hour electrocardiogram at home) from the age of 3 years. There are medications that can be given once the first signs of structural heart changes are observed to prolong the onset of heart failure and reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death.
If you think your pet requires specialist cardiology treatment, please contact your GP vet in the first instance.