Pets can be born with heart disease (congenital), and they can develop heart disease with age. Heart disease can cause coughing, trouble breathing, lethargy, weakness, and fainting. Some pets show no outward symptoms of heart disease, but abnormal heart sounds or rhythms may be detected when your primary veterinarian listens to their chest with a stethoscope. Early evaluation of heart disease is the best way to help your pet live a long and happy life.
If your pet is evaluated through Cambie Village Vet, a complete examination will be performed, and diagnostic tests may be recommended. The following tests are commonly performed:
- Echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart)
- Chest x-rays
- Blood pressure measurement
- Electrocardiography (ECG; heart rhythm evaluation)
- Blood work