Why Your Senior Pet Deserves a Heart Check in 2026

As our pets age, their needs change—sometimes in quiet ways that are easy to miss. One of the most overlooked aspects of aging pet care is heart health. Dogs and cats are remarkably good at hiding early signs of heart disease, which is why a senior pet heart exam can be one of the most important gifts you give your companion in 2026.

Whether your pet seems perfectly fine or has started slowing down, a proactive cardiac screening can make a meaningful difference in both quality and length of life.

🫀 Why Heart Disease Often Goes Undetected in Senior Pets

Heart disease in pets often develops gradually. Many senior dogs and cats don’t show obvious symptoms until the condition is more advanced. Subtle changes—sleeping more, mild coughing, reduced stamina, or quiet breathing changes—are easy to attribute to “just getting older.”

That’s where cardiac screening for dogs (and cats) becomes essential. A geriatric heart exam allows veterinarians to detect early abnormalities before they become emergencies.

🐾 What Is a Senior Pet Heart Exam?

A comprehensive senior pet heart exam may include:

• Detailed cardiac auscultation (listening for murmurs or rhythm changes)

• Blood pressure measurement

• Chest radiographs (X-rays), when indicated

• Advanced diagnostics such as echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart)

• Collaboration with a board-certified cardiologist when needed (such as those credentialed by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine)

These tools help us understand how well your pet’s heart is functioning—and whether intervention is needed now or simply monitoring over time.

🐶🐱 Which Pets Should Have Cardiac Screening?

We recommend a senior pet heart exam for:

• Dogs and cats entering their senior years

• Breeds predisposed to heart disease

• Pets with new murmurs, coughing, or exercise intolerance

• Pets preparing for anesthesia or dental procedures

• Any aging pet as part of a comprehensive wellness plan

Even pets that appear outwardly healthy can benefit from routine cardiac screening for dogs and cats, especially as part of proactive aging pet care.

❤️ Early Detection = More Options

When heart disease is identified early, we often have more—and gentler—options available:

• Lifestyle and dietary adjustments

• Early medical management

• Safer anesthesia planning

• Better long-term monitoring

The goal isn’t just longevity—it’s comfort, safety, and maintaining the best possible quality of life for your pet.

📅 Make 2026 the Year You Prioritize Heart Health

Aging gracefully starts with prevention. Scheduling a geriatric cardiac exam can give you peace of mind and give your pet the advantage of early, thoughtful care.

If your dog or cat is entering their senior years, now is the perfect time to schedule a heart check.

📞 Call us today or book online to schedule a senior pet heart exam and take an important step in comprehensive aging pet care.

Your pet’s heart has been loyal for years—let’s return the favor in 2026. 💙