Pet Echocardiograms | 4 Paws Imaging Center
Heart disease in pets can be subtle—and devastating if left undetected. Fortunately, echocardiography offers a window into your pet’s heart function, allowing early intervention and improved outcomes. At 4 Paws Imaging Center, we specialize in non-invasive cardiac imaging that helps veterinarians diagnose and manage heart disease in cats and dogs.
What Is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is a specialized ultrasound of the heart. It allows us to assess:
- Heart wall thickness and motion
- Valve function and blood flow
- Chamber size
- Presence of fluid around the heart
- Heart murmurs or arrhythmias
This detailed view helps pinpoint structural or functional heart issues—vital for determining whether medication or additional testing is needed.
When Is an Echo Recommended?
Veterinarians may recommend an echocardiogram if your pet has:
- A heart murmur
- Coughing or difficulty breathing
- Fainting or collapsing episodes
- Elevated heart rate or rhythm abnormalities
- Suspected congenital defects
Routine echos are also important for breeds prone to cardiac conditions, like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dobermans, and Maine Coons.
What the Process Looks Like
Our team works by referral from your vet. The test is typically performed without sedation and lasts 30–45 minutes. We place your pet comfortably on their side while our cardiac imaging expert uses ultrasound to examine heart structures in real time.
After the scan, we send your vet a full report with images and interpretation from a board-certified veterinary cardiologist.
Why Echos Matter
Many pets with early-stage heart disease show no symptoms—but early detection allows for better treatment outcomes. An echocardiogram offers:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Baseline for future comparisons
- Tailored treatment planning
- Monitoring of disease progression
It's also helpful in determining whether surgery or dental procedures are safe for pets with known murmurs or heart disease.
Heart health is critical at every stage of life. If your veterinarian suspects heart issues or wants a clearer picture, request a referral to 4 Paws Imaging Center for a high-quality echocardiogram. Your pet’s heart is in good hands with us.
