What is an
echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram (echo) is a specialized ultrasound used to investigate the heart size, structure and function in real-time. It is a highly informative, non-invasive and safe diagnostic test.
Echocardiography
What is an
Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is a specializedultrasound used toinvestigate the heart size, structure and function in real-time.
Ultrasound is a highly informative, non-invasive, and safe diagnostic test.
What is an
Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is a specializedultrasound used toinvestigate the heart size, structure and function in real-time.
Ultrasound is a highly informative, non-invasive, and safe diagnostic test.
Why would my veterinarian recommend an echo?
an investigation of your pet’s heart.
Among these include symptoms such as:
Cough
Shortness of Breath
Fainting
Exercise intolerance
Limb Weakness
Or Findings including:
A Murmur
Abdominal Swelling
Abnormal Findings
on Other Modalities
Abnormal Blood Pressure
Irregular Heart Rhythm
Additionally, they may
recommend studies for:
Pre-Dental
Pre-Operation
Breed-Specific Conditions
Assess Effect of
Diet Deficiencies
Assess Treatment Effectiveness
What will the echo show?
Using different techniques, the echo will provide images of inside the heart. A veterinary cardiologist will use these to determine how well the heart muscle is pumping, how efficiently the valves are working and whether any defects are inside the heart.
What can be done
with the information from the echo?
Your veterinarian will be able to tailor your pet’s care based off the veterinary cardiologist’s report and recommendations.
This may include medications, treatment, clearance for a procedure, or reassurance that the heart is healthy and functioning well.
Are echos safe?
What will my
pet experience?
Ultrasound is very safe, in fact, it is the same modality used to image babies in pregnant women. An echo uses gel and sound waves to visualize cardiac structures.
During the appointment, pets lay on their side and are held gently ensure clear images. The ultrasound probe is placed on multiple sites along the chest wall. There is no sensation from the ultrasound itself.
Cats and dogs with thick coats may need small sections of chest hair shaved. Many animals remain calm during the exam; nervous or excited patients may require gentle sedation improve comfort and minimize movements.
Do I need to withhold
food and water for
the echo?
Pets can eat and drink as they normally would before and after the appointment, unless instructed otherwise by your veterinarian.
Where are echos
performed?
The cardiac sonographer will travel to the referring veterinarian’s clinic for the appointment. It cannot be performed in the owner’s home.
When will the results be available?
Results will be sent to the referring veterinarian the next business day for routine exams and as soon as possible for urgent needs.
When should
the echo appointment be made?
As soon as a veterinarian recommends an echo, it should be booked. Early detection is useful because with proper treatment, many heart conditions can be managed. This may improve the comfort of your pet.
Echos can only be booked by a referring veterinarian. If you are a pet owner interested in booking an appointment, ask your veterinarian.
