What Can a Veterinary Cardiologist Luton Help With?
Our team of specialist vets at Davies are advanced in their diagnostic and treatment of cardiovascular conditions and symptoms in pets. When referred to our clinic, a veterinary cardiologist Luton will perform the following procedures, delivering the very best of care to all pets suffering with the heart and circulatory system.
Diagnosing cardiac conditions: They use advanced tools like electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart), and radiographs (x-rays) to identify heart murmurs, arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, and other heart diseases.
Developing treatment plans: Based on their diagnosis, they create a comprehensive treatment plan that may include medication management, dietary recommendations, and, in some cases, surgical interventions.
Performing specialised procedures: They may perform minimally invasive procedures like cardiac catheterisation, balloon valvuloplasty to open narrowed valves, or implanting pacemakers for animals with slow heart rates.
Collaborating with other vets: They work closely with primary care veterinarians and other specialists to provide integrated and optimal care for animals with complex health issues.
Veterinary Cardiologist Luton: Referrals for Pet Heart Conditions
Pet heart conditions can be congenital or acquired. Below are some conditions we see and treat at Davies Vet Specialists.
The most common heart condition in cats is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM); characterised by a thickening of the heart muscle, especially the left ventricle. The thickened muscle makes it difficult for the heart to fill with blood, which can lead to a variety of complications, including congestive heart failure and blood clots.
Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease (DMVD): This is the most common heart condition in dogs, especially in small to medium-sized breeds, as they get older. The mitral valve, which separates the heart’s left chambers, becomes thickened and leaky, causing blood to flow backwards. This can lead to a heart murmur and eventually to heart failure.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disease of the heart muscle. The heart chambers become enlarged and the muscle walls thin and weaken, making it less effective at pumping blood.
A serious and potentially fatal condition, Heartworm Disease, is caused by parasitic worms transmitted by mosquitoes. The worms live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels, causing severe damage. Prevention is key.
Congenital Heart Defects are heart problems that a pet is born with, such as a “hole in the heart” or a blood vessel that doesn’t close properly after birth. Arrhythmias are an abnormal heart rhythm. This can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.
A Veterinary Cardiologist Luton can assess, diagnose with specialist equipment and facilities, and then present the next steps and treatment plans for owners.
Our team are compassionate in these stressful times for pet owners. We understand that pets are family members, and when their health is uncertain, we do all we can to provide the support needed. Whether they are living with chronic conditions, recovering from surgeries or injuries, our team of cardiologists and other specialist vets offer all we can to make your pets happy and healthy.
Diagnosing Heart Conditions: Veterinary Cardiologist Luton
Heart diseases and conditions in pets can be difficult to diagnose in early stages, but there are certain symptoms that vets can examine for or that pet owners can look out for when concerned for their pet’s health.
Coughing: A persistent, soft, and non-productive cough, especially when lying down or at night, can be a sign of fluid build-up in the lungs (pulmonary oedema).
Difficulty Breathing: This can manifest as excessive panting, rapid breathing, or laboured breathing.
Lethargy and Exercise Intolerance: Pets may tire more easily on walks, be less interested in play, or sleep more than usual.
Fainting or Collapse: This is a serious sign that can occur when the heart isn’t pumping enough oxygenated blood to the brain.
Swollen Abdomen: Fluid can accumulate in the abdomen, a condition called ascites, which is a sign of right-sided heart failure.
Changes in Appetite or Weight: A decreased appetite or unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of advanced heart disease.
A Heart Murmur: Often the first sign of a problem, a heart murmur is an abnormal whooshing sound heard by a veterinarian during a physical exam.
Get Referrals for a Veterinary Cardiologist Luton
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for the early detection and management of heart conditions. If you notice any of the signs of heart disease in your pet, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible. We receive vet referrals for veterinary cardiologists Luton and referrals from pet owners, but consulting your usual vet for the symptoms your pet is showing is important to find the right solution or area of concern.
See our services for Veterinary Oncology Luton here