What Is Heart Disease?
Heart disease occurs when the heart muscle or valves don’t work as efficiently as they should. In cats, this is most often due to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) — a thickening of the heart muscle that makes it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively.
Some cats show no signs early on, which is why early detection through testing is so important. With proper care, many cats live happy, comfortable lives for years after diagnosis.
Common Signs to Watch For
Cats with heart disease can show subtle signs, such as:
- Decreased activity or hiding more often
- Rapid or open-mouth breathing
- Lethargy or decreased appetite
- Weight loss or muscle loss
- Sudden hind leg weakness or paralysis (from a blood clot — an emergency situation)
If your cat shows any of these symptoms, especially difficulty breathing, contact us immediately.
Treatment & Management
The goal of treatment is to reduce strain on the heart and prevent fluid buildup. Treatment may include:
- Heart Medications
Help the heart relax and pump blood more effectively. These may include diuretics, beta blockers, or ACE inhibitors depending on your cat’s condition. - Cardio Supplement
A supportive supplement that helps strengthen the heart muscle and protect heart cells. Typically includes taurine, L-carnitine, and omega-3 fatty acids. - Heart-Supportive Diet
We recommend feeding a Royal Canin Early Renal diet for cats with early or mild heart changes. This food supports both heart and kidney health, with controlled sodium levels and key nutrients. Feed only the prescribed food and treats — no table scraps or high-sodium snacks.
Ongoing Monitoring
Heart disease in cats can progress slowly or stay stable for years — regular monitoring helps us understand what’s happening inside.
- Recheck proBNP levels every 3 months to monitor heart strain.
- Chest x-rays and/or echocardiograms as needed to assess heart size and function.
- Blood pressure checks and kidney bloodwork to monitor overall health and medication tolerance.
At Home
You play a big part in keeping your cat healthy and comfortable:
- Monitor breathing at rest — normal is under 30 breaths per minute.
- Watch for increased respiratory effort, open-mouth breathing, or hiding behavior.
- Keep feeding consistent and give supplements or medications exactly as prescribed.
- Reduce stress — avoid sudden loud noises, stressful car rides, or introducing new pets.
Summary
- Heart disease in cats is common, but highly manageable with consistent care.
- Start a Cardio supplement and Royal Canin Early Renal diet to support the heart.
- Recheck every 3 months to monitor progress.
- With early care and close monitoring, your cat can live a long, comfortable life.
Your commitment to follow-up and consistency makes all the difference in your cat’s heart health. If you have any additional questions, please call us at 319-277-7675 or email us at [email protected]. We would be happy to assist you.