Can atrial fibrillation in dogs and cats be treated or controlled?

In many cases, medication or interventional assessment can help control heart rate and symptoms. Your vet will create a treatment plan and follow-up schedule based on ultrasound and blood test results.

What tests are needed to diagnose atrial fibrillation?

Common tests include a physical examination, ECG, echocardiography, and chest X-rays, along with blood tests and biochemistry to assess overall health.

What records can I keep at home to help my vet diagnose the problem?

Record coughing times, resting breathing rate, activity level, and appetite changes, and take videos of episodes to share with your vet.

What should I do if my pet faints?

If your pet faints or becomes unresponsive, go to an emergency vet immediately. At other times, record when episodes happen, how long they last, and any possible triggers for your vet to assess.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

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Disease Guide

Atrial Fibrillation and Atrial Flutter in Dogs and Cats: Breathing, Coughing, Tests & Care [2025]

Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder, often linked to heart disease, and usually needs medication to control heart rate and reduce strain on the heart.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, AAHA, Veterinary Internal Medicine Society

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Obvious difficulty breathing or open-mouth breathing that is ongoing
•Sudden collapse or brief loss of consciousness
•Gums or tongue turning purple or very pale

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Frequent coughing at night or during rest
•Faster or more labored breathing than usual after activity
•Persistent loss of appetite or noticeable decline in energy and activity

01What symptoms suggest something is wrong?

Atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter in dogs and cats often cause non-specific clinical signs. The warning signs owners commonly notice are related to breathing, activity level, and changes in awareness.

Repeated coughing or coughing that worsens at night; record when it happens and how often.
Breathing rate becoming faster or slower; noticeable changes during activity need attention.
Lethargy, reduced activity, or reluctance to play; arrange a veterinary assessment if it persists.
Reduced appetite or difficulty eating; note when it started and how much it has changed.
Occasional fainting or brief loss of balance is a warning sign that needs prompt veterinary care.
If you notice an irregular heartbeat or a sudden change in heart rate, take your pet to the clinic for an examination.

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Obvious difficulty breathing, open-mouth breathing, or laboured abdominal breathing.
⚠️ Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness.
⚠️ Gums or tongue turning purple or very pale.

02How can you assess abnormalities at home? Home monitoring tips and emergency signs

Simple records and videos taken at home can help your vet understand the disease course and decide which diagnostic tests are most appropriate.

Record coughing frequency, time of day, and possible triggers, and take a short video for your vet.
Measure the resting breathing rate once in the morning and once at night, and note any laboured breathing.
Watch for changes in mood and activity level, and write down when you first noticed them and how they progressed.
Record changes in appetite, water intake, and eating behaviour for your vet to review.
Watch for any changes in urination or bowel movements, and record the frequency and any abnormalities.
If fainting or seizure-like episodes occur, record how long the episode lasts and any possible triggers.

03How will the vet diagnose it? Common tests

At the clinic, your vet will start with basic checks and, when needed, use imaging and blood tests to further assess the heart and overall health.

Physical examination

listening to the heart and lungs, palpation, and vital signs assessment to help decide whether emergency care is needed.

Chest X-rays

assessing heart size, lung changes, and fluid in the chest; bring any previous X-rays if available.

Echocardiography

assessing the ventricles, atria, and valve function; a clinic with ultrasound equipment is recommended.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

confirming the type and frequency of heart rhythm and heart rate abnormalities.

Blood tests and biochemistry

screening for infection, metabolic issues, or organ function problems to support medication choices and overall assessment.

04How is it treated and managed after diagnosis? Medication, diet adjustments, and care guide

Treatment usually focuses on medication and regular follow-up, with imaging and blood tests used to adjust the care plan. Home care is also important.

Medication requires regular rechecks to adjust the dose and assess response; follow your primary vet's instructions.
Continue monitoring breathing, coughing, and activity level, and return to the clinic promptly if anything changes.
Adjust diet and weight management as recommended by your vet to reduce strain on the heart.
Schedule regular ultrasound or blood test monitoring; the timing and tests will be decided by your vet.
At home, avoid strenuous exercise and provide a quiet resting environment with appropriate gentle activity.

05What should you prepare before seeing the vet? Key details that help identify the cause

Bring videos and records of coughing or abnormal breathing, including the time and frequency of episodes.

Record when the signs first appeared, how they progressed, and any recent changes.

List all current medications, supplements, and known allergies.

Record changes in appetite, water intake, and toileting amounts for your vet to review.

If you have previous test reports or images, such as X-rays or ultrasound results, bring them to the appointment.

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.