Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) for Pets in Tampa, FL

When your dog or cat is not acting normally, a basic veterinarian examination is a key starting point. After listening to the animal’s heartbeat, the professional may recommend additional tests to assess heart health. In particular, our team at Harbourside Animal Hospital might recommend an electrocardiogram for pets in Tampa, FL, to help us determine the reason for the illness.

The Benefits of Pet ECG Testing and What It Entails

The electrocardiogram machine is in our offices, and we can use it while the animal is standing or lying on an examination table. The machine records significant information about the heart, including its beating rate, rhythm, overall size, and individual chamber size, some of which may prompt further investigation.

To diagnose heart problems, our experts would look for abnormalities in any of these areas. We would compare the results we receive to normal results for cats or dogs of a similar breed and size.

The results of these heart tests are precise and accurate, helping us detect even minor problems for appropriate treatment.

The Test Doesn’t Take Much Time

Most pet electrocardiogram tests only take about 20 minutes. Anxious pets may need a little more time to complete the test.

The ECG results are available immediately. Our veterinarians can test and make a sound diagnosis during a single appointment.

An ECG Is Not Painful for Animals

An electrocardiogram for pets in Tampa, FL, does not cause prolonged pain or discomfort. The non-invasive test involves attaching electrodes to the animal’s chest. The electrodes are housed in pads that we can attach with clips or a light adhesive. They will not harm the animal or damage the fur.

Pets who are extremely anxious may need light sedation before testing, but most animals handle the procedure without incident.

Symptoms That Your Dog or Cat Needs Testing

Pet ECG testing is not appropriate in all cases. Our veterinarians would only recommend this type of heart rhythm evaluation when your dog or cat is showing certain symptoms, such as:

• Lethargy
• Unwillingness to exercise
• Inability to exercise
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Gasping after exercise

If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them or hope that they’ll resolve on their own. Write down the signs you’re noticing and tell our doctors about them during your appointment. When we examine the animal, we might notice additional symptoms, such as an irregular pulse or a heart murmur, that warrant an ECG.

What an Electrocardiogram Tells Our Veterinarians

After we receive the electrocardiogram results for pets in Tampa, FL, we’ll use them to diagnose any problems they may have.

An abnormal heartbeat may indicate electrolyte imbalances, which are treatable with diet changes or medication. Some abnormal heartbeats do not indicate an underlying condition that needs treatment, and the ECG machine's information helps us make this determination.

If the heart or one of the chambers is enlarged, the animal might have a heart defect. Some of these problems are treatable with medication or surgery. Other times, you might need to limit the animal’s activity to prevent the problem from causing unnecessary stress on the heart.

Why You Should Choose Harbourside Animal Hospital for an ECG

If you are considering cardiac monitoring for pets, our team is ready to serve you. As you learn more about us, you’ll see that we are committed to providing your beloved pet with the exact level of care needed.

We focus on educating you about the treatments required to keep your cat or dog feeling strong and playful. We work alongside you to keep your pets happy and healthy, offering expert advice, discussing all your options, and making treatment decisions together.

Diagnosing your animal’s heart health requires significant attention to detail from our veterinarians. Through ongoing education, we stay up to date on the latest treatment techniques and testing procedures, enabling us to make accurate diagnoses.

Keep Your Pet’s Heart Healthy: Contact Harbourside Animal Hospital for Testing Today

Whether you need emergency medical care for your dog or cat or you’re considering diagnostic heart testing for your pet, we can help. Our professionals at Harbourside Animal Hospital have the equipment and expertise to complete a successful veterinary electrocardiogram for pets in Tampa, FL. We’ll accurately interpret the results and explain all your treatment options.

Not all veterinary cardiology services are the same. Let our team show you why so many pet lovers in the Tampa area trust us to manage their animals' heart health. Call us today at (813) 560-0567.