03/09/2026
Ever wondered what actually happens when your pet is referred to a cardiologist? ❤️
A heart murmur, an irregular heartbeat or a fainting episode can be worrying news – and being referred to a specialist can feel like a big step. In this short video, our Cardiology team walks you through exactly what to expect on the day, so you and your pet can arrive feeling prepared.
Here’s what a cardiology consult usually involves:
• 🩺 A detailed chat about your pet’s history and symptoms, followed by a thorough physical examination
• 🫀 An echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) to look at the heart’s structure and how well it’s pumping – no anaesthetic required for most pets
• 📈 An ECG (rhythm strip of the heart) to look at the heart’s rhythm and diagnose electric disturbances in the heart
• 🩸 Blood pressure assessment to screen for high or low blood pressure
• 🔬 Additional tests where needed, such as chest x-rays, blood tests, genetic tests, cardiac CT, cardiac MRI, or an ambulatory ECG monitor (Holter monitor) to record the heart rhythm at home
• 💬 A clear explanation of the findings and a treatment plan tailored to your pet, your family and your day-to-day life
• 📩 A full report back to your regular vet, so everyone caring for your pet stays on the same page
Our Cardiology service is supported by the wider multidisciplinary team at The Animal Hospital – including internal medicine, surgery, diagnostic imaging, anaesthesia and our 24/7 Emergency and Critical Care team – so complex cases are never managed in isolation.
A referral from your regular or emergency vet is needed to book a cardiology appointment. Vets can refer via the referrals page on our website. Our Cardiology service operates Monday, Tuesday and Friday during business hours – for emergencies outside these times, our Emergency and Critical Care team is here 24/7 on 1300 652 494.