What are the symptoms of cardiac arrhythmias?

Fainting or sudden episodes of weakness. Exercise intolerance. Sometimes the owner notices an irregular pulse or heartbeat. Lethargy. Some arrhythmias cause no symptoms

Is Cardiac arrhythmias contagious?

Cardiac arrhythmias does not spread directly between animals.

Corazón

Cardiac arrhythmias

A disturbance of the heart's rhythm: it beats too fast, too slowly or irregularly. Some are mild; others are dangerous.

Severe🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

URGENT if there is fainting or sudden weakness. Any irregular heartbeat that is detected warrants investigation with an electrocardiogram.

Symptoms to watch for

• Fainting or sudden episodes of weakness
• Exercise intolerance
• Sometimes the owner notices an irregular pulse or heartbeat
• Lethargy
• Some arrhythmias cause no symptoms

Causes

Heart disease (cardiomyopathies), electrolyte imbalances, systemic illnesses, medications, tumours, problems with the heart's electrical conduction.

Diagnosis

Electrocardiogram (ECG). Sometimes a Holter monitor (24-hour ECG) is needed to catch intermittent arrhythmias. Echocardiography to look for the underlying cause.

Treatment

Depends on the type: antiarrhythmic drugs, treatment of the underlying cause, and in certain severe bradyarrhythmias, a pacemaker.

Prevention

Cardiac check-ups, especially in breeds predisposed to cardiomyopathies.

When should you see the vet?

URGENT if there is fainting or sudden weakness. Any irregular heartbeat that is detected warrants investigation with an electrocardiogram.

Consult a vet 24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.