Disease overview

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common feline heart disease. It is an autosomal dominant condition which causes the thickening of the heart's muscular walls. It is characterized by tachycardia, or an irregularly fast heart beat. Tachycardia can lead to increased oxygen consumption by the heart and, in turn, to oxygen starvation, death of heart cells, and an overall worsening of the heart's function. HCM can sometimes cause symptoms in other parts of the body as well.

Gene name

MYBPC3, MYH7

Inheritance

Autosomal dominant

Signs and symptoms

Signs associated with HCM in cats include tachycardia, heart murmurs, and lethargy. In late stages of the disease, cats can experience breathing difficulties.

How is it diagnosed

Diagnosis is made on the basis of detailed history, physical examination, and echocardiography of the heart.

Breeds at higher risk

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Citations

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17521870/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24602043/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26776584/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16236761/

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.