What is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy?
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a disease that develops when the heart muscle thickens abnormally. This thickening makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. HCM is most common in cats and is usually a genetic condition. This leads to reduced heart efficiency and sometimes symptoms in other parts of the body. The cause of HCM is not fully determined, but it is more common in the following breeds:
- Maine Coon
- Ragdoll
- Sphinx
- Chartreux
- Cats of Iran
What are the Symptoms of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy?
The symptoms of HCM often depend on how far the disease has progressed. In the early stages, cats may not show any symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, some or all of the following symptoms may be observed:
- Shortness of breath
- Fast or labored breathing
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Letarji
- Signs of paralysis
One of the life-threatening complications of HCM is the formation of blood clots in the heart. Although the effect of the clot depends on its location, clots commonly cause acute hind limb pain or limb paralysis in cats with HCM.
What Are the Types of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy?
HCM is usually divided into two types, depending on whether the heart muscle thickens asymmetrically or symmetrically. In asymmetric HCM, one part of the heart muscle is thicker than the other. In symmetrical HCM, the heart muscle is usually thickened evenly.
How is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Diagnosed?
HCM is diagnosed by echocardiography, a technology that uses sound waves to create an image of the heart. Echocardiography allows the veterinarian to see the thickness of the heart muscle and how efficiently the heart is working. In cats with HCM, these images reveal the thickened walls of the left ventricle of the heart.
How to Treat Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Cats?
Treatment of HCM usually depends on the severity of the disease and the symptoms. Treatment aims to reduce the thickening of the heart muscle and allow the heart to pump blood effectively. This is usually accomplished with heart medications, dietary changes and regular veterinary check-ups. Drugs such as nitroglycerin can also be applied to the cat's skin.
Is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Contagious?
HCM is not a contagious disease. It is usually a genetic condition and is more common in some cat breeds.
Is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Transmitted from Cat to Human
Is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Transmitted from Cat to Human?
Can Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy be passed from cat to cat?
No, HCM is a genetic condition and is not passed directly from one cat to another. However, kittens of cats with the disease may have a genetic predisposition for HCM.
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