The cumulative effects of changing lifestyle, lack of physical activity, hypertension and stress is what it triggers heart problems and the end result is fatal and it holds true for our feline friends as well. Read on to find out all that you wanted to know about heart attack in cats.
Heart diseases which finally lead to heart failures are commonly seen in cats. Experts believe that heart diseases in cats are usually caused by a condition
called cardiomyopathy. In this condition, the heart muscles are unable to function normally which in turn leads to heart failure. This condition also happens when blood clots are formed within the heart blood vessels. In addition to this, there can be several heart rhythm abnormalities that can also cause cardiomyopathy.
The most common causes of sudden death in cats are heart diseases. Feline cardiomyopathy or ‘heart muscle disease’ as it is popularly known, is one of the most common causes of sudden death in cats.
The sad part is that this condition has no warning sign and can only be detected during the post mortem. Cardiomyopathy in cats is a progressive disease. A progressive disease is the one that worsens, grows or spreads with the passage of time. Since it will affect your pet for a lifetime, it is sometimes also referred to as chronic illness.
Symptoms
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of heart attacks include the following.
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Obesity
- Difficulty in breathing or labored breath
- Increased heart rate
- Depression
- Fainting
- Lethargy
- Sudden collapse
- Restlessness
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss or weight gain
Dr GR Baranidharan suggests that one should follow regular exercise schedule with their cats to get rid of heart attacks. He elaborates the causes, complications, diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
Causes
Cardiomyopathy and heart disease in cats are believed to be largely hereditary. Certain breeds like Persians and Siamese are at an increased risk as compared to other breeds. Hyperthyroidism is also one major factor that can worsen the situation. Hyperthyroidism is the condition wherein the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones. Obesity and hypertension can also aggravate the heart problem in cats. It is advised that the regular health check-up of your cat should include heart check-ups as well.
Complications
- Cats with cardiomyopathy have great difficulty in coping with stress. Situations like travel, excessive heat, grooming and visit to the vetcan be highly stressful and have negative effects.
- Cardiomyopathy can also lead to formation of blood clots in heart. This can in turn lead to blocked blood flow and sudden paralysis in both hind and rear legs.
- Cats with heart problems are always at an increased risk of heart failure or sudden death.
Diagnosis
The condition is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and several tests. Electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram and x-rays help the vet know the condition more clearly. In addition to that, blood test and urine test are also performed. The blood and urine tests help in knowing the condition of various concurrent diseases like – diabetes, hypertension, hyperthyroidism etc.
Cats usually mask the signs and symptoms very well, which means delay in detection. Now that you know the most common symptoms, keep an eye on the symptoms and consult your vet if you think anything is out of place.
Treatment
Treatment would primarily depend and vary according to the underlying cause. The vet knows the best for your pet.
Your vet would prescribe medications after complete diagnoses. The medications usually improve the functioning of the heart. Depending upon the severity of the disease, there are chances that a blood thinner would also be prescribed. This would regulate the blood flow and would reduce the risk of formation of a clot.
The vet might also suggest some dietary and lifestyle modifications. These would be greatly beneficial for your pet in the long run. Also note that in some cases the vet might restrict heavy physical activity and strenuous exercise depending on the condition.
Regular follow-ups are essential to know the condition of the heart. Make sure that you get all the recommended tests done for your beloved cat as and when the vet asks.
Since cats with cardiomyopathy cannot handle even the slightest amount of stress, it becomes your prime responsibility to take care of your kitty.
Ensure that you and your pet eat healthy, make exercise a part of your lifestyle and eat medicines on time. Most importantly take time out to spend those moments of love, cuddles and happiness with your pet.
(With inputs from Dr GR Baranidharan (PhD), Assistant Professor at Madras Veterinary College, Chennai and he also works as senior veterinarian at The Ark Veterinary Clinic, Chennai).