What’s Next in In-Clinic Heart Testing for Pets

heart testing for pets

With all the benefits of point-of-care testing and new technologies in tow, heart testing for pets in-clinic is a readily available approach. One such way to detect heart disease is NT-proBNP testing, made possible through a veterinary fluorescence immunoassay analyzer. This quantitative immunoassay analyzer allows improved, and more accurate, detection via biomarkers for canine and feline-related diseases. 

For heart diseases to be tested on a machine in minutes is an incredible advancement in available veterinary technology: With it, results can direct next steps for diagnostic outcomes. 

Breakdown of NT-proBNP 

NT-proBNP is a great indicator of heart disease for all domesticated animals, and tests for the identification of cardiac biomarker pro-hormone. Correlated to heart size and systolic function, the pro-hormone is produced by cardiac muscle cells. Because NT-proBNP has a longer half-life, stability makes diagnosing heart diseases more successful with the diagnostic biomarker implant. 

While several companies have marketed their in-clinic biomarker testings for years, this specific fluorescence immunoassay analyzer provides quantitative NT-proBNP results for felines and canines—allowing them to receive an early diagnosis of heart disease. 

Ultimately, this test offers precise quantity measurements, detecting the degree of NT-proBNP levels within minutes. This affords veterinarians the insight necessary to quickly prescribe the right kind of treatments/treatment plans to their patients. 

Before Anesthesia: A Deeper Look

“We always listen to the heart, but issues can be present without being able to hear them. Recently, our practice began implementing NT-proBNP testing for all anesthetic cases. This test can identify undetected heart disease in minutes,” says Jennifer Mathis, DVM, CVPP, of Animal Dentistry Referral Services in Norwalk, Iowa.

This form of quantitative, pre-operative heart screening technology is extremely helpful to veterinarians as it gives a deeper understanding of the animal’s health, blood pressure, and ability to handle anesthesia. Additionally, NT-proBNP provides access to internal details, can detect virtually any form of heart abnormality, and delivers qualitative calculations to determine IV fluid amounts. 

With NT-proBNP, testing can turn insightful for patients who have a predisposition. There are many breeds of cats and dogs that suffer from predisposed heart failure or other critical cardiac issues, including: 

  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel;
  • English Springer Spaniel;
  • Cocker Spaniel;
  • Great Dane;
  • Saint Bernard;
  • Portuguese Water Dog;
  • Irish Wolfhound;
  • Boxer;
  • Doberman Pinscher;
  • Persian Cats;
  • Maine Coon Cats;
  • Rexes;
  • Sphynxes;
  • Ragdolls. 

Become Better Prepared for In-Clinic Heart Testing for Pets

We help you provide the best possible care to your patients—and deliver peace of mind to their owners. 

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