Echocardiograms
An echocardiogram is a highly effective, non-invasive procedure used to diagnose heart disease in pets. If you suspect your pet may need an echocardiogram, contact Lake Huron Veterinary Clinic today.
What Is an Echocardiogram for Pets?
An echocardiogram is a specialized diagnostic tool used by veterinarians to assess the health and function of your pet’s heart. It’s the same test used in humans to evaluate heart conditions.
The procedure uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to produce live images of the heart, allowing us to observe its structure and function in real-time. With an echocardiogram, we can evaluate:
- The size of the heart
- The shape of the heart
- The thickness of the heart walls
- How well the heart is pumping
- Abnormal blood flow patterns or potential blood clots
- The condition of the pericardium (the heart’s protective lining) and valves
- Any areas of damage within the heart
How Does a Pet Echocardiogram Work?
During the echocardiogram, our veterinarians use a small probe that is placed gently against your pet’s skin over the heart. The probe emits sound waves that bounce back from the heart, creating images that are displayed on a screen. These images help us examine your pet’s heart in detail.
The procedure is generally painless and non-invasive. While sedation may not always be necessary, it can be used to keep your pet still for the duration of the test, ensuring the clearest images. Some pets may also require small areas of chest hair to be shaved for better imaging.
Should My Pet Get an Echocardiogram?
Heart disease is a serious condition that can affect both dogs and cats. Factors such as age, breed, and diet can influence your pet’s likelihood of developing heart problems. An echocardiogram provides a detailed, accurate assessment of your pet’s heart health and helps our veterinarians create the most effective treatment plan.
We recommend an echocardiogram if your pet has been diagnosed with a heart murmur, arrhythmia, or if there’s concern about heart disease. It’s also helpful for pets displaying the following symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
- Bluish tinge to the skin or gums
- Lethargy
- Fainting or sudden collapse
- Hind leg paralysis (in cats)
- Heart murmur or arrhythmia
If your pet exhibits any of these signs, an echocardiogram could be crucial in diagnosing potential heart issues.
Schedule an Echocardiogram at Lake Huron Veterinary Clinic
In the metro-Detroit area, scheduling an appointment with a cardiology specialist can take months. While we are not board-certified cardiologists, our veterinary team at Lake Huron Veterinary Clinic has specialized training in echocardiograms, allowing us to offer this critical service in-house. We also work closely with cardiologists for consultations on complex cases, ensuring your pet receives the best possible care.
To schedule an appointment, contact Lake Huron Veterinary Clinic at 810-985-8300 or Request An Appointment online.
