Last updated: 14 Oct 2026 | 24 Views |
Is Heart Disease Screening Necessary for Pets and Exotic Animals?
By Dr. Rattikan Woralha, DVM, Ph.D.; Dr. Jirasin Jinnathanaphusit, DVM; Dr. Chanikan Unhanan, DVM; and the Khwankham Veterinary Cardiology Team
Studies have shown that pets are at risk of developing heart disease. In dogs, the overall prevalence of heart disease is approximately 10%, increasing to as high as 60% in older dogs. The most commonly found conditions include myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
Congenital heart disease is less common, with a reported prevalence of only 0.46–1.6%. In cats, however, heart disease is more common, affecting approximately 15% of the population, with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) being the most frequently diagnosed condition.
The Growing Importance of Cardiac Screening in Pets and Exotic Animals
Khwankham Animal Hospital has been a pioneer in cardiac screening for companion animals and exotic pets for many years.
We have increasingly encountered heart disease in exotic animals, with the risk rising as they age. Affected species include dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents—particularly hamsters, for which an increasing number of cases have been reported—as well as birds and reptiles.
This growing need has highlighted the importance of having more veterinarians who specialize in cardiology.
According to statistics from Khwankham Animal Hospital’s Khon Kaen branch, an average of as many as two animals are brought in for cardiac examinations each day. This reflects the growing awareness and commitment of pet owners in provincial communities to their animals’ health.
In Bangkok, demand for veterinary cardiology specialists has been evident for more than 15 years, and a similar upward trend is expected in provincial areas.
Greater public awareness of heart disease and its potentially serious consequences has been driven by news reports, incidents involving people close to pet owners, and the loss of beloved pets. For these reasons, Khwankham Animal Hospital has consistently promoted cardiac screening and encouraged pet owners to take this important aspect of their animals’ health seriously.
Comprehensive Cardiac Examinations Across All Branches
Today, every branch of Khwankham Animal Hospital has veterinarians available to provide cardiac examinations for a wide range of animal species. Diagnostic services include electrocardiography (ECG) and echocardiography (heart ultrasound).
We encourage all pet owners to have their animals undergo regular health checkups and cardiac screening when appropriate. Heart disease should never be overlooked, and early detection can help veterinarians assess the condition and provide appropriate care.
