Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the most common heart disease in cats, is a heart disease in which areas of the heart muscle enlarge and thicken. Because early symptoms may be mild or even nonexistent, a seemingly healthy cat may suddenly become very ill or even die.
HCM impairs the heart's ability to function properly. This disease is most commonly seen in cats younger than five years of age, though it can be seen in older cats. It is diagnosed when there is no other cause of left ventricular hypertrophy found, such as hyperthyroidism or systemic hypertension. There is no cure for HCM, though medication can be prescribed to manage HCM. Treatment options will vary but may include heart medication, a diuretic, or medication to reduce the ability of the blood to clot. |
