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Idexx Laboratories announces the addition of Cardiopet pro-BNP. This blood test
is useful in assessing cardiac health in the dog and cats. The test can also
help us differentiate between a cough that is caused from primary heart disease
or primary lung disorders (bronchiis, etc). Lastly, if your pet has been
previously diagnosed with heart disease and is currently on treatment, we can
assess how our therapies are helping.
BNP (B-type natriuretic polypeptide) is released by atrial tissues of the heart
during muscle stretching. As the heart becomes sicker, more and more of the
proteins are released into the bloodstream.
We are now currently recommending the Cardiopet BNP test for any older dog or
cat during the annual wellness visits. In those younger dogs with a breed
predisposition to heart disease (Boxers, Dobermans, Siamese cats) it may help
us identify those patients before they develop signs of severe disease.
When you come in for your pet's annual wellness visit, please ask for the BNP
Test. The test can be included when we are drawing blood for the wellness
screen.
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