AI App Developed in Kaluga to Diagnose Heart Conditions in Dogs and Cats
The desktop program analyzes X-rays in seconds, cutting a process that once took minutes down to near-instant results.
Researchers in Kaluga have developed an artificial intelligence application that measures heart size in dogs and cats using X-ray images. The software delivers a diagnosis within seconds and has already received two patents. The veterinary diagnostics research is being conducted by young scientists affiliated with the Russian State Agrarian University–Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, including Yulia Shmarenkova, a senior lecturer in veterinary medicine and animal physiology at the university’s Kaluga branch. The development was reported by the regional outlet Znamya.
Measuring the Cardiothoracic Index
Shmarenkova is currently working on her PhD thesis, focusing on the use of artificial intelligence in analyzing cardiac X-rays of dogs and cats. Her research aims to demonstrate how AI can help veterinarians identify heart disease more quickly and accurately at early stages.
According to Shmarenkova, the work is based on calculating the cardiothoracic index, which compares the size of the heart to the length of the thoracic vertebrae. The process begins with a right-side chest X-ray.
Established reference values already exist for cats and various dog breeds. Comparing the calculated index with these norms allows veterinarians to determine whether the heart is enlarged. Shmarenkova questioned whether artificial intelligence could streamline this routine task, which can consume a significant portion of a radiologist’s time.
From Three Minutes to Seconds
Working with scientists from a Moscow department of statistics and cybernetics, the team developed a desktop application that automates calculation of the cardiothoracic index from X-ray images. The program analyzes a chest X-ray and produces the final index value automatically.
The new system reduces analysis time by orders of magnitude. Currently, cardiac radiography is typically performed when animals show symptoms such as shortness of breath or coughing. With AI integration, access to radiographic screening could expand, potentially making it part of routine annual checkups for pets.
Earlier, we reported that tele-veterinary services became available for pet owners in Moscow.
