Cardiology Services for Pets

Pets, like humans, can experience a range of heart issues. One of the most commonly diagnosed is heart disease, which can be caused by other underlying health problems. Our veterinary team can provide your pet with the support they need to maintain a healthy heart, despite their diagnosis.

Can younger pets develop heart issues?

Although heart problems are found more often in older pets, these conditions can affect pets at any age. Heart disease is usually a life-threatening condition, but early diagnosis and appropriate therapy can extend your pet's life. If caught soon enough, some forms of heart disease can be cured. Some pets are born with heart issues that could worsen over time with age, injury, and infection.

Is heart disease life-threatening?

Heart disease can lead to congestive heart failure (CHF), which occurs when the heart can no longer pump blood effectively. If a pet is suffering from CHF, fluid usually accumulates in and around the lungs as well as sometimes in the abdomen. Congenital heart disease (animals born with a heart problem), valvular heart disease (abnormalities of the heart valves), arrhythmias (rhythm disturbances), and heartworm disease can all lead to CHF.

How do I know if my pet has heart issues?

We can discover many heart problems during a physical exam. Additional tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), radiographs (X-rays), and ultrasounds, are usually needed to accurately identify the cause of the heart disease or failure. If you notice your pet has any of the following symptoms, it's important for you to contact us at (416) 231-9293:

• Rapid breathing
• Coughing
• Loss of appetite
• Tires easily
• Weakness
• Trouble exercising