Pet X-Ray/ Ultrasound
An echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) is needed to confirm the cause (origin) of the murmur and severity of heart disease (if any) present.
It is impossible to determine whether a heart murmur is benign or pathologic by auscultation alone
(ie: listening to the heart with a stethoscope)
An echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) is needed to confirm the cause (origin) of the murmur and severity of heart disease (if any) present. Unfortunately the “loudness” or “Grade” (I-VI) of the heart murmur does not necessarily correlate with either heart disease presence or severity. For example, some cats can have significant heart disease present WITHOUT having a murmur.
Most echocardiograms are performed by a veterinary specialist called a cardiologist. Chest x-rays, EKG (heart rhythm strip), a blood test called Pro-BNP, and blood pressure measurements also give helpful information, but are not a substitute for an echocardiogram.
Many pets with persistent heart murmurs can live normal lives and may not ever progress to significant heart disease requiring medication, however, some do benefit from medication or are at risk of congestive heart failure.