Cardiology
Veterinary cardiology is the discipline that studies the heart and its diseases, as well as its interactions with the respiratory system and other body systems (kidneys, liver, etc.). The Cardiology Consultation is provided by doctor Eline Trambelland, who is currently specializing in cardiology with the Improve international organization.
Heart Disease in Animals
Heart disease and its exploration can affect all animals and at any age. This may be a puppy or aging animals in which cardiac auscultation has revealed an anomaly (heart murmur), but also certain breeds with a predisposition to the development of heart disease; Maine Coons, Cavaliers King Charles, ... It is therefore important to monitor the heart health of these, particularly if they are intended for reproduction or must undergo anesthesia. It is advisable to do a screening when: There is the appearance of a heart murmur whatever the age of your animal. There is the appearance of symptoms (exhaustion, syncope, cough, etc.) in order to assess cardiac function and the presence or absence of heart disease (heart failure). Your animal suffers from other diseases and these may have consequences on cardiac function (pulmonary, infectious, hormonal, certain cancers, etc.) or that their treatment has an impact on cardiac function. General anesthesia is planned and the animal suffers from a known heart murmur but not explored. Knowledge of the nature of the heart disease, as well as its stage (heart failure or not, severity), allows optimal management and the implementation of treatment if necessary.
Why a cardiology consultation?
Cardiology consultation is indicated: After identification of an abnormality: heart murmur, arrhythmia, blood pressure, pulse abnormality, etc. When unexplained symptoms appear: breathing difficulties, cough, rapid breathing, fatigue, shortness of breath, intolerance to exercise, discomfort or syncope, etc. For the diagnosis of heart diseases, their evaluation, the implementation of treatment and the monitoring of the progression of the disease
Examinations that can be carried out in cardiology
Echocardiography
The advantage of this exam is that it is completely painless.
Using ultrasound, it is possible to visualize your pet's heart.
By placing the ultrasound probe in different locations on the body, we can visualize the heart in full operation on the screen.
This examination allows us to;
- Visualize the heartTake measurementsCheck the heart valvesMeasure the size of the heart chambersVisualize potential problems
Radiographic examination
Radiography is one of the useful tools in medical imaging.
In animals, as in humans, x-rays allow us to visualize certain parts of the body such as the heart, lungs, intestines or even bones.
Sometimes short-term tranquilization is necessary so that your animal does not move.
This examination allows us in this case to:
- Check the size of the heart Observe the rib cage Observe the diaphragm Visualize the lungs Highlight certain problems.
