Heart disease in pets often develops silently, without obvious symptoms. In many cases, a heart murmur or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) discovered during a routine veterinary exam is the first sign of an underlying cardiac condition. Early evaluation by a veterinary cardiologist can make a significant difference in the long-term health and quality of life of your pet.

At Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital, our Cardiology Service provides advanced diagnostics and treatment for heart conditions in dogs and cats. We work closely with your family veterinarian to further investigate heart murmurs, arrhythmia, or other clinical findings that may suggest heart disease, often before symptoms ever appear.

When to Consider a Cardiology Evaluation

If your veterinarian has identified any of the following, it’s important to schedule a consultation:

• Heart murmur

• Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)

• Changes heard on routine auscultation (listening to the heart)

• Breed predisposition to heart disease

Signs That Warrant Prompt Attention

While many pets with heart disease show no outward signs initially, the following symptoms may indicate a more advanced condition:

• Rapid or labored breathing, with or without coughing

• Collapse or fainting episodes

• Decreased ability to exercise or tiring easily

• Swollen abdomen due to fluid buildup

If your pet is experiencing significant breathing difficulties, collapse, or other sudden changes, please seek emergency veterinary care immediately rather than waiting for a scheduled appointment.

Our Cardiology Services Include:

• Echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound)

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)

• Thoracic radiographs (chest x-rays)

• Blood pressure monitoring • Advanced interventional procedures

Early cardiac evaluation and intervention can help manage heart disease before it progresses.

Trust the specialists at Mass Vet to protect your pet’s heart health and their future.