What term describes a faster-than-normal heart rate?

The term "tachycardia" specifically refers to an elevated heart rate, generally defined as a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute in adults. This condition can arise from various factors such as emotional stress, fever, or underlying medical issues. It is essential in veterinary medicine to recognize tachycardia, as it can indicate pain, anxiety, or other systemic conditions requiring treatment.

In contrast, tachyarrhythmia refers to a type of irregular heartbeat characterized by an increased heart rate but focuses more on rhythm disturbances, rather than just a high heart rate. Bradycardia describes a slower-than-normal heart rate, while arrhythmia signifies any irregularity in the heartbeat that may or may not involve a change in heart rate. Therefore, tachycardia is the most accurate term for describing a faster-than-normal heart rate.