Cat getting a checkup by vet

Why Early Cardiac Screenings Can Save Your Pet’s Life

When it comes to your pet’s health, preventing illnesses is always better than curing them, especially when it comes to the heart. Many heart conditions in dogs and cats develop silently, showing little to no symptoms until they have progressed to advanced stages. By the time you notice signs like coughing, fatigue, or difficulty breathing, your pet’s condition may already be serious. That’s why early cardiac screening is one of the most important steps you can take to safeguard your pet’s long-term health.

Below, Coast to Coast Cardiology delves into the importance of early cardiac screenings and explains how this essential step in your pet’s care can make all the difference.

What Is Cardiac Screening for Pets?

Cardiac screening is a series of diagnostic tests used to assess your pet’s heart health before symptoms appear. These may include:

  • Physical examination and auscultation (listening for heart murmurs or irregular rhythms)
  • Echocardiogram (ultrasound imaging of the heart)
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check electrical activity
  • Chest X-rays to evaluate heart size and lung health
  • Blood tests for cardiac biomarkers

These tests provide a detailed look at heart structure, function, and rhythm.

The Benefits of Early Cardiac Screening

1. Detect Heart Disease Before Symptoms Develop
Many heart conditions, such as mitral valve disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, and congenital defects, can progress silently. Early detection allows for monitoring and treatment before your pet experiences distress or irreversible damage.

2. Improve Treatment Outcomes
The earlier a heart problem is identified, the more options there are for slowing its progression. Medications, diet changes, and lifestyle adjustments can often make a significant difference when started early.

3. Extend and Improve Quality of Life
Preventive cardiac screening can help your pet live a longer, healthier, and more comfortable life. Managing heart disease in its early stages can prevent crises like congestive heart failure or sudden collapse.

4. Identify Breed-Related Risks
Certain breeds, such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, and Maine Coon cats, are predisposed to specific heart conditions. For these pets, routine screening is even more crucial.

5. Provide Peace of Mind for Pet Owners
Even if results show your pet’s heart is perfectly healthy, regular screening offers reassurance and a valuable baseline for future comparison.

When Should Your Pet Have a Cardiac Screening?

  • If your pet belongs to a high-risk breed
  • If your veterinarian hears a heart murmur or irregular heartbeat
  • Before starting a breeding program
  • As part of annual or semi-annual wellness checks for senior pets
  • If your pet shows signs like coughing, exercise intolerance, or rapid breathing

The Bottom Line

Early cardiac screening can literally save your pet’s life. By identifying heart disease before it becomes advanced, you give your pet the best chance at a longer, healthier future.

If you want a preventive cardiac screening for your pet, come see us! At Coast to Coast Cardiology, we have 12 distinct locations, but we deliver on one goal no matter what: treating the patient, not just the signs. To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call 844-582-3827 today.