Echocardiogram for Pets: A Closer Look at Your Pet’s Heart
Your pet’s heart works tirelessly every day to keep them healthy, energetic, and full of life. While some heart conditions can be detected with an electrocardiogram (ECG), certain issues require a more detailed view. That’s where an echocardiogram (echo) comes in.
An echocardiogram is an advanced, non-invasive test that uses ultrasound technology to create real-time images of your pet’s heart. It allows veterinarians to evaluate the structure, movement, and function of the heart in detail, helping detect and manage heart conditions early.
What Is an Echocardiogram for Pets?
An echocardiogram (sometimes called cardiac ultrasound) is a painless procedure that uses sound waves to produce live images of your pet’s heart. Unlike an ECG, which measures electrical activity, an echo shows the actual anatomy of the heart—its chambers, valves, and blood flow.
This makes it one of the most valuable diagnostic tools in veterinary cardiology.
Why Might My Pet Need an Echocardiogram?
Your veterinarian may recommend an echocardiogram if your dog or cat shows:
-
Heart murmur detected during a physical exam
-
Difficulty breathing, coughing, or fainting
-
Irregular heartbeats or abnormal ECG results
-
Enlarged heart suspected from X-rays
-
Exercise intolerance or unusual fatigue
It’s also commonly used to monitor pets already diagnosed with heart disease.
How Is an Echocardiogram Performed?
The procedure is safe, stress-free, and does not require sedation in most cases. Your pet is gently placed on a padded table, and a small probe is placed on the chest. Ultrasound waves create a live video of the heart, which your veterinarian can analyze immediately.
The test usually takes 30–60 minutes and provides detailed information about:
-
Heart size and shape
-
Valve structure and function
-
Blood flow and pressure
-
Presence of fluid around the heart
-
Overall pumping ability
Benefits of an Echocardiogram for Pets
-
Accurate diagnosis of heart disease
-
Early detection before symptoms worsen
-
Monitoring progression of cardiac conditions
-
Guiding treatment with medication or lifestyle changes
-
Peace of mind for pet owners
👉 At Aurora Pet Vet, we provide advanced echocardiography services for dogs and cats. Our goal is to ensure your pet’s heart health is closely monitored, giving them the best chance for a long and happy life.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your pet’s echocardiogram and consult with our veterinary team.