A cardiac examination is an evaluation of the cardiovascular system, which includes the heart, blood vessels, and it is usually performed to some extent, during annual examinations in all ages of animals.  However, with older animals or those with predispostion to heart disease, more extensive testing is recommended.

How it works

During your visit, your veterinarian will ask you specific questions related to your pet's heart health.  Signs of heart disease can be vague and may include coughing, weakness, fainting episodes, and exercise intolerance.  The physical exam is usually performed in combination with a cardiac exam and maybe performed by a veterinary technician who reports the findings to your veterinarian.  Vital signs including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate are also checked to determine heart health.  Your vet will also perform a procedure called capillary refill time which involves pressing on the gums and counting how many seconds it takes for the color of the gums to return to normal.  This test can help determine how well the blood is circulating.

Vital Signs

• Heart rate: Normal heart rate for the dogs range from 70 beats/min in larger breeds to as high as 220 beats/min in puppies. Normal heart rates for cats and kittens range from 120-240 beats/min.

• Respiration rate: Normal respiration rate in dogs and cats ranges from 18-36 beats/min

What tests are performed?

Auscultation:

After taking the vitals, your veterinarian will listen to your pet's heart using a special instrument called a stethoscope which magnifies the sounds of the heart.  The scientific term for this process is called auscultation.  As your veterinarian listens, she may detect irregular heart beats or sound, abnormal rhythm, or the presence of a murmur- all which are associated with  heart disease.  Your veterinarian will also use the stethoscope to listen to the lungs for abnormal sounds, such as sounds produced from fluid buildup, which can occur in certain types of heart disease. 

CRT  (Capillary Refill Time) Gums are normally are pink and have a normal capillary refill time of < 2 seconds. Pale gums may indicate issues with the heart, anemia, or or shock. Dark brown or blue gums can also be signs of heart disease. 

What are the benefits of a cardiac exam

A cardiac exam is important to assess the overall health of the heart and circulatory system.  The animal may have underlying heart issues that may not be obvious and catching them early is important. Many heart conditions can be managed successfully, if caught early.