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Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Cats(HCM)

The most common cardiac disease in cats, where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick. Many breeds have genetic predisposition, and it can cause sudden death.

Vet Supervised

Symptoms

  • Asymptomatic (early stage)
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Lethargy
  • Sudden hind limb paralysis (thromboembolism)
  • Fainting

Causes

  • Hereditary (gene mutations identified in many breeds)
  • Secondary to hyperthyroidism
  • Hypertension

Diagnosis

1

Cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram)

2

ECG

3

Chest X-ray

4

NT-proBNP blood test

Treatment

  • ACE inhibitors
  • Beta-blockers
  • Diuretics (for congestive heart failure)
  • Anti-thrombotic therapy (clopidogrel)

Prognosis

Asymptomatic cats can survive long-term, but prognosis is poor once heart failure or thromboembolism develops.

Severity: High

Prevention

  • Genetic testing (MYBPC3, etc.)
  • Annual echocardiogram
  • Breeding management

Commonly Affected Breeds

Epidemiology

Prevalence

Approximately 15% of all cats

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