Cardiology

In-House Diagnostics:

• Thorough cardiac auscultation and physical examination
• Electrocardiography (ECG) to assess heart rhythm and electrical activity
• Digital chest radiography to evaluate heart size and detect lung changes
• Echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound) performed by our imaging-qualified veterinarians
• Blood pressure measurement

Collaborative External Specialist Model:

For complex cardiac cases, Vet HQ will consult a cardiologist who visits our practice on a regular basis. This allows your pet to receive a board-certified cardiology evaluation in familiar surroundings, with our team present throughout. You maintain continuity with veterinarians who understand your pet’s complete medical history, supported by external specialist expertise when it improves outcomes.

Degenerative Valve Disease (Mitral Valve Disease):

The most common cardiac condition in dogs, particularly small breeds and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Causes progressive heart murmurs as valve leaflets thicken and fail to close completely. Many dogs live comfortably for years with appropriate medication and monitoring.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy:

Heart muscle weakening affecting large breed dogs. Causes reduced pumping efficiency and often arrhythmias. Requires careful medication management and regular monitoring.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy:

Heart muscle thickening, most common in cats. Can cause sudden collapse or breathing difficulty. Requires specific medications and stress minimisation.

Arrhythmias:

Abnormal heart rhythms ranging from benign to life-threatening. ECG monitoring identifies the specific arrhythmia type, guiding appropriate treatment decisions.

Heart disease rarely resolves—it requires ongoing management including appropriate medications, regular monitoring, lifestyle modifications, and honest conversations about prognosis and quality of life.

What Long-Term Management Involves:

• Medication to improve heart function and reduce fluid accumulation
• Regular recheck examinations (frequency depends on disease severity)
• Repeat diagnostic testing to monitor disease progression
• Medication adjustments based on clinical response
• Clear guidance about symptoms requiring urgent attention
• Realistic discussions about prognosis at each stage

Some cardiac patients live comfortably for years with appropriate treatment. Others progress more rapidly despite intervention. Prognosis depends on:

• Specific cardiac disease type
• Severity at diagnosis
• Individual response to medications
• Presence of concurrent health conditions
• Development of complications

We provide realistic prognostic information at diagnosis and update it as we monitor your pet’s response to treatment. This allows you to make informed decisions about care intensity and quality of life considerations throughout your pet’s disease course.

Contact us immediately if your pet experiences:

• Sudden collapse or weakness
• Laboured breathing or open-mouth breathing in cats
• Coughing that worsens or prevents rest
• Blue-tinged gums or tongue
• Severe lethargy or inability to stand

These symptoms may indicate heart failure decompensation or serious arrhythmias requiring immediate intervention. During our opening hours (until 7pm, 7 days a week), we can provide an urgent assessment. After hours, we coordinate transfer to emergency services equipped for critical cardiac care.

For more information on Cardiology services, contact Vet HQ Darlinghurst or Double Bay.