Advanced heart diagnostics for dogs and cats
At Middle Brighton Vet, we offer echocardiography - a safe, non-invasive ultrasound that allows our veterinarians to see your pet’s heart in real time.
This advanced diagnostic tool helps us assess how your pet’s heart is functioning, detect disease early, and guide the best possible treatment plan. Whether your pet has a known heart condition or you’ve noticed symptoms like coughing, fatigue, or breathing changes, echocardiography provides vital insight.
What is echocardiography?
Echocardiography (often called an echo) uses high-frequency sound waves to create moving images of the heart. It allows us to:
● Measure how effectively the heart is pumping blood
● Visualise valve movement and identify leaks or narrowing
● Detect enlargement, structural abnormalities, or fluid buildup
● Assess overall cardiac function without the need for surgery or anaesthesia
The procedure is gentle, quick, and completely pain-free.
Why choose Middle Brighton Vet for your pet’s echo?
| Benefit | What it means for your pet (and you) |
|---|---|
| Veterinary expertise in cardiology | Our team includes veterinarians trained in advanced imaging and heart health — with access to visiting specialist cardiologists when needed. |
| High-definition imaging equipment | Modern ultrasound technology ensures crisp, accurate visualisation of heart chambers, valves, and blood flow. |
| Accurate diagnosis, better treatment | An echo provides precise data to guide ongoing care — from medication to diet and exercise planning. |
| Stress-free experience | Most pets are examined while gently restrained and can remain awake, minimising stress and recovery time. |
| Comprehensive in-clinic support | If further tests are needed (X-rays, ECG, bloodwork), we can perform them immediately within our clinic. |
When your pet might need an echocardiogram
Your vet may recommend an echo if your pet:
● Has a heart murmur detected during examination
● Shows breathing changes (laboured or fast breathing, panting at rest)
● Displays coughing, fatigue, or reduced exercise tolerance
● Has signs of fainting, collapse, or poor circulation
● Requires monitoring for an existing heart condition or medication response
Echocardiography is also valuable for pre-anaesthetic assessments in senior pets or those with suspected cardiovascular disease.
The procedure
1. Pre-exam assessment - we review your pet’s history, symptoms, and prior test results.
2. Ultrasound imaging - your pet lies comfortably on a padded table while our vet gently moves the probe over the chest. A small patch of fur may be clipped for better contact.
3. Real-time analysis - the heart’s motion and blood flow are assessed on screen, sometimes with Doppler imaging to measure pressure and flow direction.
4. Results & recommendations - our vet explains the findings, provides digital images, and outlines treatment options or next steps.
Most exams take 30–45 minutes and do not require sedation unless your pet is particularly anxious.
Common conditions diagnosed
● Heart murmurs and valve disease (MVD, endocardiosis)
● Cardiomyopathy (DCM, HCM)
● Congenital defects (PDA, septal defects)
● Pericardial effusion (fluid around the heart)
● Pulmonary hypertension
● Secondary heart changes from systemic disease (e.g. thyroid or kidney issues)
FAQ
Is echocardiography safe?
Yes - it’s non-invasive, painless, and does not expose your pet to radiation.
Does my pet need sedation?
Usually not. Most pets tolerate the procedure well with gentle handling and minimal restraint.
How soon will I get results?
Our vets will discuss the findings immediately after the scan. If a specialist cardiologist is consulted, a detailed report typically follows within 24–48 hours.
Can you perform follow-up scans?
Absolutely - we often recheck heart health every 6–12 months to monitor disease progression or medication effectiveness.
What if my pet needs specialist care?
We collaborate closely with board-certified veterinary cardiologists who can review scans, visit the clinic, or provide surgical or interventional recommendations when required.
Echocardiography
Our team of professionals are here to help make pet care easy. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet's health, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or give us a call to arrange a suitable time.
