What is an ECG, and what does it do?
We refer to an electrocardiogram when we speak of an ECG or EKG. This diagnostic test will monitor your pet's heart and diagnose any potential concerns—little sensors attached to the skin monitor electrical activity to represent what the heart is doing.
This non-invasive test allows us to check for issues safely while keeping your cat or dog comfortable.
What can your vet learn about your pet using an ECG?
By performing an ECG, your vet will be able to note many different things about the health of your pet's heart. The main thing an ECG shows is the heart rate and rhythm. It also gives them an understanding of the electrical impulses going through each section of the heart.
A typical ECG consists of a pattern: a small bump that rises, called the P-wave, then a large spike upward, called the QRS complex, and the next smaller bump, called the T-wave.
The P-wave represents the atria contracting. The QRS complex is when the ventricles depolarize, or the large contraction of the heart that is the typical 'heartbeat.' The appearance of the T-wave shows that the heart is repolarizing.
Your vet will ensure the wave's shape is correct and measure the distance between its parts. Often, the concerns are the information provided by the P-wave and the QRS complex interval. These tell how fast the heart is taking in blood and pumping it.
The next major source of information is the peaks of the QRS complex and the distance between them. For a regular heartbeat, the distance between the spikes will be identical. If the spikes are more frequent, infrequent or identical, your pet will have an irregular heartbeat.
What is a normal cat or dog ECG?
Each animal will have a normal heart rate which varies between each species. The normal heart rates for dogs and cats are as follows:
Dog: The normal rhythm for a canine is typically 60 to 170 beats per minute.
Cat: The normal rhythm of felines should be 140 to 220 beats per minute.
Are ECGs safe for pets?
Yes, feline and canine ECG tests are safe. ECG is a non-invasive diagnostic test that passively monitors the heart.
When are ECGS needed for cats and dogs?
There are many different situations when a vet may recommend an ECG. Here are some of the most common reasons for an ECG:
Abnormal Cardiovascular Rhythm
Cardiac murmurs, gallop sounds, and arrhythmias are obvious abnormalities that may necessitate an ECF. These can often indicate diastolic dysfunction; an ECG is always warranted in dogs and cats.
ECGs can be caused by intracardiac or extracardiac disease, and they help rule out primary cardiomyopathy and/or infiltrative cardiac disease. The ECG also helps determine appropriate anti-arrhythmic therapy for the individual patient.
Breed Screening
Many breeds of dogs and cats have a heritable predisposition for heart disease.
- Dog breeds include the Doberman Pinscher, the Great Dane, the Boxer, and the Cocker Spaniel.
- Cat breeds include the Maine Coon, the Persian, the Ragdoll, and some American Shorthairs.
Thoracic Radiographic Changes
Cardiomegaly on radiographs can be due to cardiac enlargement, pericardial fat accumulation, and/or patient variability. An ECG is the most specific tool for determining each cardiac chamber's size and is very important in determining a cause for radiographic cardiomegaly.
Feline Echocardiography
Cats can be particularly challenging for cardiology patients because they can have severe cardiomyopathy or other heart diseases despite having no clinical signs. An ECG is often the only appropriate diagnostic test specific and sensitive to cats.
Some types of cats, such as Purebreds, have a higher risk of heart disease. Therefore, your vet may be more likely to recommend an ECG if your feline friend falls into this category. This will help confirm the presence of heart disease and determine the patient's therapeutic needs.
How much is an ECG for a cat or dog?
When it comes to the cost of this or any other diagnostic test, the total amount will vary based on your pet, the clinic itself and if your pet has any other services or tests performed during their visit.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.