Echokardiography in a dog or cat - indications and procedure? How much does it cost?

An echocardiogram, also known as echocardiography, is a basic examination of the heart's structures. The veterinarian can use it to assess the thickness of the atrial walls and ventricles, the function of the heart valves, the efficiency of the heart muscle, and blood flow in the atria and ventricles. It is carried out by specialized veterinarians, such as a cardiologist for dogs and cats.

This is a non-invasive test that is completely safe for the patient. It visualizes the structure and function of specific heart structures by using ultrasound waves emitted and received by a special probe.

Echo serca u psów i kotów – wskazania

An internist should order a cardiac echo if your pet experiences: 

• Quick fatigue and fainting
• A racial proclivity for heart disease
• Cough unrelated to the respiratory system
• The need for cardiac control prior to premedication
• Murmurs and abnormal heart sounds during auscultation

Echocardiography in dogs and cats – contraindications

Echocardiography has no contraindications because it is a non-invasive and painless examination. It is safe to perform on animals of all ages, including pregnant dogs and cats.

How is echocardiography performed in cats and dogs?

The examination is very efficient if the patient cooperates and does not try to escape from the vet. The vet will require access to the left side of the animal's chest. If necessary, the doctor will shave a small piece of hair to keep the probe close to the animal's skin. A special gel is applied to the probe, which allows for proper image reception. The animal will not be harmed if it licks the gel remnants off its hair because the gel is non-toxic to the organism. The veterinarian will properly position the patient and request assistance in immobilizing the pet. After the examination, the owner receives a detailed description of the heart structures that were examined.