Overview

Electrocardiography, also referred to as EKG, is a diagnostic tool used to measure the electrical activity of the heart. The recorded measurements are then reviewed by a cardiologist to screen for or monitor any heart conditions.

Why would my pet need electrocardiography?

If your pet is having heart-related health issues, diagnostic tools such as an EKG or Echocardiogram can be used to help diagnose the problem and provide direction to your doctor as to treatment options.

When would my pet need electrocardiography?

Our doctors may recommend an EKG if they detect a heart murmur during an exam or if your pet is experiencing symptoms of a heart-related condition. An EKG is also always used during any type of anesthesia to safely monitor your pet’s heart function throughout the procedure. If your pet is experiencing symptoms such as lethargy, fainting, shortness of breath, or other unusual behaviors, please contact us immediately, as these could be signs of heart disease.

How does electrocardiography work?

Veterinarians use EKG testing and echocardiograms to evaluate your pet's heart. They are both noninvasive, safe with no risk of exposure to radiation, and only take a few minutes. They’re typically done with the pet lying down on a padded table. The EKG is an effective tool that measures the electrical efficiency of the heart. It’s commonly used to evaluate the heart rhythm, identify abnormalities in the heartbeat, and assess potential damage to the heart muscle and tissue. An echocardiogram uses ultrasound technology, or high-frequency sound waves, produced by a transducer and directed towards the chest. These two exams used together can greatly increase the accuracy of the diagnosis of many heart conditions for your dog or cat.