Cardiology
The cardiology service at the Queen Mother Hospital offers a comprehensive canine and feline referral service to veterinary surgeons in general practice.
Current Studies
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)in Cats
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is very common in cats, with the worst affected cats developing life-threatening complications. 
As median survival in cats with HCM and congestive heart failure (CHF) is only around 6 months, (J Payne et al, JSAP 2010) there is a real need for studies evaluating additional treatments to improve the morbidity, quality of life and long-term survival time in these cats.
The Royal Veterinary College in conjunction with an animal health company is conducting a study into the effects of a novel therapeutic agent on disease progression and potential clinical effectiveness in cats with HCM and CHF.
The study will run over a 6 month period for each cat. Cats eligible for this study must have a diagnosis of CHF within 1 month prior to enrolment. They must be at least 1 year of age and weigh 2kg or greater.
Cats will not be eligible if they have clinical signs of ATE (aortic thromobembolism) or any other systemic diseases such as hyperthyroidism or diabetes mellitus.
For further information click here
Sick Sinus Syndrome in West Highland White Terriers
Sick sinus syndrome (SSS) is a heart disease that affects older dogs. It causes the heart to beat slower than normal, causing signs of weakness or collapse, particularly at exercise. In the United Kingdom, SSS appears to affect West Highland White Terriers (WHWT) more commonly than other breeds. We are assessing both healthy and affected WHWT for evidence of a genetic abnormality that causes SSS. If this can be found it will help us understand the disease better, allowing for better detection, earlier treatment and even prevention of the disease.
Print out study information here