An electrocardiogram (e-lek-tro-KAR-de-o-gram) is a simple, painless test that records the heart's electrical activity. An electrocardiogram is also called EKG or ECG.

 

With each heartbeat, an electrical signal spreads from the top of the heart to the bottom. As it travels, the signal causes the heart to contract and pump blood. The process repeats with each new heartbeat. The heart's electrical signals set the rhythm of the heartbeat.

An EKG is routinely used to monitor your pet during any procedure requiring anesthesia, including spays and neuters, dental cleanings, and any other surgery.

 

An EKG can show us how fast the heart is beating, whether the rhythm of the heartbeat is steady or irregular, and the strength and timing of electrical signals as they pass through each part of the heart.

 

This test is used to detect and evaluate many heart problems, such as arrhythmia (ah-RITH-me-ah) and heart failure. If your pet is on heart medications, Dr. Marshall may do an EKG to see how well the medicine is working.

 

An EKG may be recommended if your pet has symptoms that suggest a heart problem such as:

 

Difficult or labored breathing

Lethargy or weakness

Unusual heart sounds or irregular heartbeat when the doctor listens to your pet's heartbeat

 

 

If you have any questions or would like a quote for a procedure, please feel free to call us at (281) 444-8387.