Pet ECG Services | 4 Paws Imaging Center
Heart disease doesn’t always roar—it whispers. In pets, signs of heart trouble like fatigue or fainting may seem subtle or unrelated. That’s why tools like the electrocardiogram (ECG) are so valuable in veterinary medicine. They help veterinarians “listen” to the heart’s electrical rhythm and detect problems early—before more serious symptoms appear.
At 4 Paws Imaging Center, we provide quick, painless ECGs for cats and dogs to help pet parents and vets get the clearest possible picture of cardiac function.
What Is an ECG?
An ECG (or EKG) is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. It doesn’t take images like an ultrasound, but instead records the heart’s electrical impulses through small electrodes placed on your pet’s limbs or chest.
These readings show the heart’s rhythm and rate and can detect arrhythmias (abnormal rhythms), conduction issues, or the effects of medications on heart function.
When Is an ECG Recommended?
Your veterinarian may recommend an ECG if your pet:
- Has a heart murmur or irregular heartbeat
- Has experienced fainting, collapsing, or weakness
- Is showing signs of heart disease (coughing, fatigue, labored breathing)
- Is undergoing anesthesia and has known heart concerns
- Is taking medications that affect the heart
- Is part of a breed at higher risk for cardiac conditions
In some cases, ECGs are part of a routine senior pet checkup or pre-surgical assessment, especially in high-risk patients.
What Happens During the Test?
ECGs are fast and non-invasive. Your pet will lie comfortably on a soft surface while small electrodes are placed on their limbs and/or chest. The procedure typically takes less than 10 minutes and does not require sedation.
Our trained technician monitors the ECG and captures the data in real time. That data is then interpreted by a board-certified cardiologist, who provides a detailed report to your veterinarian.
What Can an ECG Detect?
An ECG can identify a range of cardiac issues, including:
- Tachycardia (fast heartbeat)
- Bradycardia (slow heartbeat)
- Atrial fibrillation or flutter
- Ventricular arrhythmias
- Heart blocks or conduction delays
- Effects of heart enlargement or chamber strain
These insights help your vet determine if medication, further testing (like an echocardiogram), or lifestyle changes are needed.
Supporting Pet Parents and Their Vets
At 4 Paws Imaging Center, we act as a partner in your pet’s care. We work directly with your primary veterinarian to offer fast scheduling, calm and compassionate patient handling, and rapid report turnaround.
We’re here to make diagnostics easier—so your pet gets the right treatment sooner.
Think your pet might benefit from an ECG? Ask your vet for a referral to 4 Paws Imaging Center. We’ll take it from there—because every heartbeat matters.
