An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a diagnostic test that records the electrical activity of the pet’s heart. The electrocardiogram (ECG) is a noninvasive test. The heart’s electrical activity is recorded by attaching small contact electrodes (clips) to the limbs and chest wall, this allows recording of electrical activity...
The ECG is the test of choice for diagnosis of abnormal heart rhythms and can be useful for identification of heart enlargement or drug effects on the heart. An ECG is indicated whenever a heart rhythm problem is suspected, when a heart murmur is detected, when there is x-ray evidence of heart enlargement, or when cardiovascular symptoms such as fainting occur. We recommended ECG for dogs and cats over 7 years old prior to general anesthesia as part of preanesthetic work-up to screen underlying systemic diseases and abnormalities.
The ECG takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes to perform and interpret.