CARDIOLOGy

There are various reasons why a cardiological examination is advisable:

• detection of a murmur or alteration of normal heart rhythm on auscultation of the cardiac area during a routine examination
• weakness and/or syncopal seizures reported by the owner;
• coughing under stress;
• increased respiratory rate at rest.

There are also certain breeds of dogs and cats that present heart disease from birth or at a very early age without showing any signs referable to such a condition.

The cardiological examination makes it possible, following the collection of data reported by the owner, to assess signs and symptoms relating to the pathology in question.

With the aid of the phonendoscope, it is possible to identify the site of the murmur and formulate a hypothesis of structural pathology.

Performing thoracic radiology makes it possible to assess the size of the heart, any alteration to the normal cardiac silhouette, and the presence of pulmonary oedema or pleural effusion.

Performing an electrocardiogram allows us to detect primary rhythm abnormalities that may be the cause of the patient's weakness or may be manifestations of advanced structural heart disease.