In-Home Electrocardiogram (ECG) For Your Dog or Cat
An important diagnostic tool to assess your pet’s health, an ECG measures the electrical activity of the heart and can detect any abnormal rhythms or arrhythmias. With our state-of-the-art technology and equipment, our BetterVet veterinary care teams are able to perform dog and cat ECGs without the need to leave your home.
Limited appointments available. Reserve your spot today. Same-day or next-day availability in most locations
How is a Pet ECG Performed?
Our Fear-Free® certified veterinarians will make sure that your pet is in a relaxed state when performing the painless cat or dog ECG test at home. Once your dog or cat is calm, comfortable and can remain still either standing up or lying down, your vet will apply either rubbing alcohol or gel before placing the ECG electrodes on the base of your dog or cat’s legs. Your pet’s electrical impulses will then be recorded for as short as a minute time, up to a few minutes. After the test is run, your vet may send the results out to a veterinary cardiologist for interpretation. Reports can take up to five business days, depending on the service. Your vet will then contact you to discuss the results.
Common Reasons Why Your Pet Might Need an ECG
An ECG can yield important information for you and your veterinarian, and the results can answer questions about the overall health of your pet’s heart.
- If your pet has heart disease or another medical condition that can affect their heart
- When your pet’s heartbeat is irregular or difficult to hear during a physical exam
- If your pet needs surgery
- When there are concerns about your pet’s breathing or mobility
- If cardiac monitoring is recommended due to your pet’s medication
Frequently Asked Questions
An ECG can determine if your pet’s heart rate is within a normal range. If your pet’s heart is beating too quickly or too slowly, this can be an indication of a medical condition that may require further examination.
An ECG can also determine if your pet has any congenital heart defects, heart diseases, such as congenital heart failure, or heart valve damage.
