Veterinary Cardiology
Veterinary Cardiology in Dublin – Heart Care for Dogs and Cats
At Cara Veterinary Group in Dublin 15 (Ballycoolin) and Dublin 7 (Phoenix Park Gate), our experienced vets diagnose and manage heart disease in pets using advanced imaging, blood tests, and medication. Early detection can dramatically improve your pet’s quality of life and longevity.
BOOK A CARDIOLOGY CHECK • Call 01 885 3253 • Join our Pet Healthcare Plan for ongoing preventative care
Understanding Veterinary Cardiology
Heart disease in pets often involves valve damage, muscle weakness, or heart enlargement. These conditions are usually progressive and can be genetic, meaning certain breeds are more at risk.
Our team provides comprehensive heart assessments including physical exams, cardiac auscultation (listening for murmurs), blood tests for ProBNP, and advanced ultrasound scans to assess heart structure and function.
Heart Disease in Dogs
Valvular Disease
This is most common in small and toy breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Jack Russell Terriers, and Yorkshire Terriers. It usually affects middle-aged to older dogs and causes the valves to leak, leading to reduced blood flow efficiency.
Common Signs
- Tiring easily or slowing on walks
- Soft cough at rest or after exercise
- Reduced activity levels
- Fainting or collapsing
- Increased breathing rate
How We Help
Your vet will listen for a heart murmur. If significant, we recommend an ultrasound scan to check for enlargement. If heart size or valve changes are detected, medication can slow progression and improve quality of life.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
This condition affects larger breeds such as Dobermanns, Great Danes, Boxers, Labradors, and Spaniels. It occurs when the heart muscle weakens and chambers enlarge, reducing pumping strength.
Symptoms
- Reluctance to exercise
- Rapid breathing or panting at rest
- Swollen abdomen (fluid build-up)
- Lethargy or sudden collapse
- Occasionally sudden death
Even a quiet heart murmur can be significant in large breeds. We recommend a ProBNP blood test or cardiac ultrasound to confirm diagnosis.
Heart Disease in Cats
Cardiac problems in cats can be subtle. The most common condition is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), where the heart walls thicken and blood flow is reduced.
Warning Signs
- Breathing difficulties or fast breathing at rest
- Lethargy or hiding behaviour
- Loss of appetite
- Painful, sudden hind-leg paralysis caused by clots (saddle thrombus)
Important: Not all cats with murmurs have heart disease, and not all cats with heart disease have murmurs. A blood test (including thyroid testing) and ultrasound scan are essential for accurate diagnosis.
How We Diagnose and Treat
- Physical examination and auscultation (listening for murmurs)
- Blood tests including ProBNP and thyroid screening
- Digital X-rays to assess heart size and lung condition
- Cardiac ultrasound to evaluate chamber function and valve performance
- Medication plans to reduce strain and improve heart output
Ongoing monitoring ensures your pet remains comfortable and active for as long as possible.
Book a Cardiology Appointment
- Call 01 885 3253 to schedule a heart check for your pet.
- BOOK ONLINE NOW for general health assessments.
Our Locations
Cara Veterinary Hospital - Unit 233, Blanchardstown Corporate Park 2, Ballycoolin, Dublin 15 (D15 Y384)
Cara Veterinary Clinic - 1A North Circular Road, Phoenix Park Gate, Dublin 7 (D07 HE48)