The main symptoms of heart disease in cats. The main types of ailments include: Acute heart failure

Heart failure in cats, like in people, is a severe diagnosis with which you must continue to live. The heart is a kind of engine of the whole organism. It pumps blood, without which no other organ can function. Lungs and heart - this is the trio, without which the death of the entire organism will occur. Today we will tell you in detail about the main symptoms and methods of treating heart failure in cats.

For some reason, a pet’s heart may sometimes not perform all its functions. This leads to a “failure” of the functioning of the entire organism as a whole. And if heart problems are not noticed in time, heart failure will develop. But everything starts small, gradually “gaining strength.”

This disease in cats, the symptoms of which are unfamiliar to many, is associated with a complex of disorders. The incorrect rhythm in which the heart muscle contracts during this pathology disrupts blood circulation throughout the body. Uncontrolled attacks “eat up” all the energy, which can barely cope with the supply of oxygen and necessary nutrients to tissues and organs. Therefore, the pathology is considered very dangerous. And this is in calm state. But as soon as the animal starts running, symptoms of asphyxia appear (lack of oxygen, suffocation).

This is interesting! Cats suffer from acute heart failure less frequently than humans. This is facilitated by nutrition and the specificity of biochemical processes in the animal’s body.

Pathology is more common in individuals over 6 years of age. But it happens that symptoms of the disease appear in kittens as early as six months. Therefore, it is a mistake to believe that only old animals suffer from heart failure. Small puppies and kittens can also hear this terrible diagnosis. And this is due to a number of reasons.

There are several types of heart failure in cats. Along the way there is acute and chronic heart failure. But they also talk about congenital or acquired deficiency. In addition, there are primary and secondary (heart problems arise after infectious diseases).

It is also worth knowing about the predisposition of some breeds to the development of diseases of the cardiovascular system. Large breeds cats (for example, Maine Coon and others) are more likely than others to develop diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Causes of heart failure

The causes of heart failure in cats can be very diverse, but in most cases the onset is “taken” from heart disease (of all kinds). For example, congenital defects, myocarditis, pericarditis, cardiomyopathy. A little more about her.

Hypertrophic

The most common form of cardiomyopathy. With this type of heart failure, the heart muscle increases in size several times, and mainly the ventricular myocardium increases. This leads to the fact that the volume of the ventricle of the heart decreases. As a result, there is less blood in it, but the body needs oxygen! Therefore, the myocardium has to contract more often and rests less. But rest is necessary. Hence the “fatigue” of the muscle, which is followed by heart failure in dogs and cats.

Dilated cardiomyopathy

With this type of heart failure in cats and dogs, the wall of the ventricle does not thicken, but stretches. But despite the fact that the volume of the ventricle increases and there is a lot of blood in the heart, it still normal function heart is broken. The myocardium cannot fully contract, thereby expelling all the blood from the ventricle. Some of it “stagnates,” which stretches the walls even more.

Restrictive

In this case, the muscles seem to be “wooden” and practically do not stretch. Their elasticity is lost. And, despite the fact that the volume of the ventricle does not change, the myocardium cannot cope. It is not elastic, it is extremely difficult for it to contract.

Intermediate

Very complex look cardiomyopathy. And all because it is not always possible to diagnose it, because changes from different types of cardiomyopathy are mixed.

• Age. Where would we be without him? Old people suffer more often than others due to various kinds deficiencies. This is all simply explained by the fact that organs “get tired” throughout life and become “targets” for pathogens of infectious diseases. And the heart is under incredible stress.
• Large animals have the hardest time, because the heart, like a pump, needs support. high pressure pump a lot of blood. But miniature breeds also have a hard time, because their “engine” beats at a much higher frequency, and this significantly “wears out” the heart muscle.
• Infectious diseases. They often lead to heart pain.
• If the thyroid gland is overactive, it produces too much hormone.
• High blood pressure. There are also hypertensive animals among animals.
• Wrong diet. There should be no salt!
• Toxins, drugs. All this is in the blood, which will definitely end up in the heart. The poisons will “settle” and destroy the myocardium.
• Genetics (predisposition also influences, it was written about above). The tendency to heart disease is inherited. This is why it is so important to know who your pet's parents are.

Symptoms of heart failure in cats

Symptoms of heart failure in cats depend on many factors. One of which is the age of the animal.

Chronic heart failure in cats appears gradually. Symptoms do not appear all at once and increase slowly. Therefore, even the most attentive owners may not notice the disease immediately. The limbs and chest area often swell.

How to diagnose the disease

So that the treatment gives positive results, diagnosis should be carried out by an experienced veterinarian - cardiologist. It usually includes:

1. Blood and urine tests.
2. X-ray examination of the chest.

If a cat is diagnosed with heart failure, it is recommended to protect it from breeding offspring, since the disease is often inherited.

Among other things, the development of this anomaly in an animal is determined using the following methods:

Collecting a complete medical history (data about the pet from the owner). It is important to prepare and provide the veterinarian with detailed, comprehensive information; it is best to bring it to the appointment in writing, so as not to miss important details about the health and vital functions of your pet.

Listening, palpation and other methods of visual and physical examination. Even by measuring an animal’s blood pressure, you can come across a sign of a disease: lower readings usually indicate the presence of serious problems with heart.

How to provide first aid for heart failure

If you do not immediately come to the aid of your pet when acute attack heart failure, he may die suddenly.

You need to act measuredly, but quickly, as follows:

• lay the pet's head to one side;
• remove tongue from mouth;
• Apply a cool compress prepared in advance to the cat’s head;
• try to bring the animal to its senses by holding a cotton ball soaked in ammonia;
• The paws must be held above the head to increase blood flow to it.

Treatment of cats with heart failure

Any treatment of a cat with symptoms of heart failure should be supervised. veterinarian! Self-medication can not only aggravate the course of the disease, but also lead to the death of the animal! Be sure to find out the cause of the malaise!

Ignoring the problem over time can lead to irreversible changes in the heart and blood vessels.

Owners are required to reduce walks (no more than 20 minutes at a time), at least physical activity and stress. And diet is very important. You will have to limit salt and drinking, as this provokes the formation of edema.

If we talk about drug therapy, then the treatment will be lifelong. The heart needs to be supported. To do this, the veterinarian may prescribe medications to treat a cat with heart failure such as cardiac glycosides, potassium supplements. Medicines that prevent blood from clotting (anticoagulants). Diuretics will help remove excess fluid from the body and reduce swelling.

It is necessary to strictly follow all medical instructions and recommendations. The slightest deviation from the treatment regimen will negate all progress on the path to recovery. heart rate, and continuing the course may in some cases become hazardous to health.

How to act so that the kitten never encounters this disease? First of all, care must be taken to ensure that cats exposed to the disease do not produce offspring. Or, when choosing a pet, check its pedigree to see if there are any cases of cardiac anomalies, and if any are found, do not buy a “pig in a poke.”

But even a healthy animal needs to be looked after, making sure that the cat eats rationally and leads an active lifestyle. A balanced amount of nutrients will help avoid obesity in your pet, which is often observed in lazy neutered cats, which need to be monitored more closely. Regular walks with games outside, which are also beneficial for the respiratory and, therefore, cardiac system, also prevent obesity. In addition, cardiac problems may worsen in adult cats after general anesthesia. Therefore, before the operation involving it, the animal must be carefully examined.

How long a cat with heart failure will live depends only on how badly the heart is affected and how qualified veterinary care is provided to the animal. Self-medication is extremely dangerous. Due to incorrectly prescribed medications, the animal may develop pulmonary edema, and in combination with heart failure, this will lead to the death of the animal. It is worth understanding that medications to treat a cat/dog with heart failure will have to be given for the rest of the pet’s life. Once cardiomyopathy has developed, then, alas, it is forever. But the owner, together with the veterinarian, is able to make the life of the mustache easier.

Still have questions? You can ask them to our site's in-house veterinarian in the comment box below, who will respond to them as soon as possible.

Heart disease can develop significantly before it is noticed, especially affecting domestic cats with a "couch" lifestyle. Early recognition of clinical signs may help in such cases. Kittens with birth defects hearts grow slowly, are less active, have shortness of breath and generally weak condition, as well as a pounding heartbeat.

If affected left-hand side heart disease, signs most often include shortness of breath and noisy breathing. If the right side is affected, the cat may have an enlarged abdomen due to the accumulation of fluid in it. A shunt that disrupts normal blood circulation and valve damage causes a heart murmur. Murmurs are sounds that occur when blood moves under pressure through an opening that is larger or smaller than normal.

Congenital heart diseases.

These are diseases that animals are born with. The incidence of congenital heart disease is quite low, only 1-2% of kittens are born with this pathology. Siamese cats are hereditarily predisposed to certain congenital heart diseases.

FIBROELASTOSIS OF ENDOCARDIAL.
This defect is most common in Siamese and Burmese cats and is characterized by enlargement of the left ventricular wall and transformation of the endocardium into a dense fibroelastic membrane. Over time the leaves aortic valve become different in size and thickness. Kittens with FE may have shortness of breath and sometimes breathe with their mouths open. These signs are first observed between three weeks and four months of age. Death may occur without clinical signs occurring. Treatment rarely helps.

INSUFFICIENCY OF THE ATRIOVENTRICULAR VALVE.
Mitral and tricuspid valve defects in cats are more common in cats than in other animal species. Cats may have unusually thick or malformed valves, or valves that are not properly attached to the heart wall. Each of these defects results in insufficient valve function. With right/left-sided lesions, corresponding clinical signs appear.

Treatment includes pharmacotherapy with diuretics to reduce the workload of the heart and possibly digitalis to strengthen the heart muscle. In many cases, kitten owners contact the veterinarian too late.

NON-CLOSATION OF THE DUCTUS BOTALLOS.
The ductus botallus is a vessel that connects the aorta to the pulmonary artery in the fetus to provide blood circulation bypassing the non-functioning lungs. A patent duct is diagnosed if the connection between these vessels is preserved after the start of breathing. Normally, the ductus Botallus closes anatomically within three days after the first inhalation. If infection does not occur, signs are observed at the age of 1 month to 5 years.

The diagnosis is made based on listening to heart murmurs, visible changes in the electrocardiogram, and interpretation of contrast radiography of the heart. Treatment consists of surgical ligation (closing) of the duct. Normal life cats can be continued if the operation is undertaken in a timely manner and the duct has not recovered. Without surgery, the prognosis is usually poor.

SEPTAL DEFECT.
A ventricular septal defect means there is a hole between the ventricles of the heart that allows blood from the left ventricle to flow into the right ventricle (shunt). This is one of the most common birth defects in cats. An atrial septal defect (hole between the atria) may also be present. There are often no unusual clinical signs of this disease. If signs appear, it is usually respiratory complications such as shortness of breath and cough.

Tests used by veterinarians to detect a septal defect include radiography of the lungs and heart, echocardiography (an ultrasound test), and cardiac catheterization for selective angiography (a form of radiography that uses radiocontrast to visualize blood vessels and changes in the heart).

Treatment includes diuretics and digitalis (a substance that increases the force of heart contractions and reduces their rate). The prognosis is poor if the defect is significant, because surgical method no treatment is yet available for cats.

STENOSIS OF THE AORTA AND PULMONARY ARTERY.
Stenosis is a narrowing on or near a valve. Aortic stenosis (narrowing of the aortic valve) restricts blood flow from the left ventricle. The left ventricle is forced to work harder to provide the necessary circulation, which manifests itself in an increase in the size of the heart muscle (hypertrophy). Clinical signs are the same as for left-sided insufficiency: difficult and noisy breathing.

Pulmonary stenosis, in which the opening of the pulmonary artery is affected, causes a similar effect, but from the right ventricle. Signs indicate right-sided insufficiency: Enlargement of the abdomen due to the accumulation of fluid in it.

The only treatment method is surgical. Because it requires special equipment, etc. it is currently unavailable.

Tetralogy of Fallot (four simultaneous defects).
It's complicated heart defect, including pulmonary stenosis, dextraposition of the aorta (in such a way that it begins in the interventricular septum and receives arterial and venous blood, right ventricular hypertrophy and ventricular septal defect. Blood is shunted between the right and left ventricles, bypassing the lungs. Signs of this disorder typically include emaciation, cyanotic skin, exercise intolerance, and slow growth. Diagnostic procedures performed by veterinarians may consist of electrocardiography, echocardiography and radiography. Treatment can be conservative or surgical. As always surgical method requires appropriate equipment. The forecast is cautious.

RIGHT AORTIC ARCH.
This birth defect is rare in cats. During embryonic development, the aorta is formed from the right embryonic arch much less frequently than from the left. As a result, the aorta forms to the right of the trachea and esophagus. As the pulmonary veins develop normally (above the left side of the trachea and esophagus), the esophagus begins to become pinched between the major blood vessels. Vomiting is a consequence of this strangulation. Surgically the problem can be solved.

Acquired heart diseases.

These are heart diseases that do not exist at birth, but develop during life. They can be of a primary or secondary nature.

ARRHYTHMIAS (heart rhythm disturbances).
Changes in the heart's electrical impulses disrupt the natural rhythm of the heart, causing various arrhythmias. Oxygen deficiency in the heart muscle, acid-base imbalance, electrolyte imbalances, drugs, toxins and heart disease can cause arrhythmias. Most cardiac disorders associated with electrolyte imbalance occur in response to changes in serum potassium levels. Imbalance in calcium, sodium, magnesium, hydrogen may also be the cause critical violations myocardial conductivity.

Atrial and ventricular extrasystoles occur when there are premature electrical impulses originating outside the sinoatrial node (natural pacemaker). They are often placed in cats with hypokalemia ( reduced content serum potassium). Hypokalemia may occur with chronic episodes of severe vomiting or diarrhea, or with excessive loss of potassium in the urine (kidney disease, due to the use of diuretics or insulin). Treatment is based on correcting the cause of hypokalemia (for example: gastrointestinal, kidney problems) and infusion of potassium supplements.

Atrial and/or ventricular fibrillation occurs when the heart generates erratic electrical impulses that prevent the heart muscle from contracting fully. Atrial fibrillation is uncommon in cats, probably due to small size heart, but if registered, it is usually due to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy(enlarged heart muscle).

Bradycardia (lower than normal heart rate) is most common in cats with urethral obstruction (a blockage of the urinary tract). Obstruction is the cause electrolyte disturbances(excess potassium) and metabolic acidosis, which lowers the heart rate. Severe bradycardia and conduction abnormalities in these cases must be treated immediately to avoid death.

Tachycardia (increased heart rate above normal) can be caused by hyperthyroidism (excessive functional activity thyroid gland), known birth defects, and bacterial endocarditis (inflammation of the inner lining of the heart). Tachycardia may also be associated with fear, stress, anemia and fever.

Typically, decreased cardiac output associated with arrhythmias results in decreased blood flow to the brain, spleen, and kidneys. Antiarrhythmic drugs can help treat arrhythmias, but therapy should be aimed at correcting the underlying cause of the arrhythmia.

ACQUIRED DISEASES OF THE HEART VALVES.

These are disorders in which one or more valves are affected by a primary pathological process. They can cause degenerative processes, systemic bacterial infections and chronic dental infections. A disease that affects the valves causes the edges of the valve to thicken and shrink, which prevents the valve from properly closing the hole and causes blood to flow back. The result is decompensated heart failure.

Although bacterial endocarditis It is uncommon in cats and usually affects the left valves. Typical signs infections include fever, depression and decreased appetite.

Antibiotics are given to treat the infection wide range actions. If heart lesions are due to infection, your veterinarian may prescribe heart medications and diuretics to support heart function. The prognosis is favorable if treatment for bacterial endocarditis is started in a timely manner.

MYOCARDIAL DISEASES.
Cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy is a primary disease affecting the heart muscle. The final result of the disease is the inability of the heart to compensate for stress, heart failure. Hereditary pathology, viral diseases, autoimmune mechanisms, biochemical abnormalities and dietary deficiencies (eg taurine) may be involved in the development of cardiomyopathy.

Cardiomyopathies are divided into hypertrophic, dilating and contracting. There is an increasing number of cats whose heart disease cannot be classified within just these three categories. Middle-aged males of known breeds are more prone to cardiomyopathies. Most of the established signs (difficulty breathing, lameness or paralysis, depression and ascites) resulted from arrhythmias, decompensated heart failure or blood clotting. At further stages, collapse may occur. It occurs when breathing or circulation is partially or completely temporarily interrupted due to obstruction of arterial blood flow.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). GCM - the most common form acquired heart disease in cats, which predominantly affects young and middle-aged males. This is an enlargement of the left ventricular wall, papillary muscles and septum, which limits the size of the left ventricular cavity. This type of enlargement prevents the heart from stretching adequately to receive blood, so cardiac output decreases. The incidence of thrombosis is slightly higher than with other forms of cardiomyopathy. The dynamics of this thrombosis are directly related to the limitation of ventricular filling, which allows blood long time linger in the left atrium, which gives a great chance for clots to form.

Signs suggestive of HCM include labored noisy breathing, depression, decreased appetite, and possibly lameness or paralysis of the hind limb due to thrombosis.

The prognosis is favorable if arrhythmia and blood clotting can be controlled with medications. Treatment usually consists of negative inotropes (substances that act to increase muscle contractions), diuretics and control doses of aspirin.

Dilational cardiomyopathy (DCM). RCM occurs primarily in middle-aged and old cats. The incidence of RCM in Siamese, Abyssinian and Burmese cats is also increased.

RCM - enlargement of all cavities of the heart. This expansion occurs as a result of muscle cells stretching, thereby thinning and weakening the heart wall.

Research has shown that taurine deficiency (an essential amino acid) may be a cause of RCM. Cat food manufacturers add taurine sources to meet the latest tauine level recommendations for cats.

Progression of the disease often leads to decompensated heart failure (DHF), especially if the animal is not treated. DHF is characterized by depression and emaciation due to decreased cardiac output. If the right ventricle or both ventricles function in concert, fluid accumulates in the chest cavity and minimally - in the abdominal. Cardiogenic shock or fatal arrhythmia are often the cause of death in DHF.

Containing cardiomyopathy (endocardial fibrosis). Containment cardiomyopathy is rare in cats. In this disease, fibrous tissue covers the heart muscle, causing the heart to become rigid. This reduces the heart's ability to stretch and contract. Older cats are predominantly affected.

Diuretics and digitalis can be used for treatment. A low-salt diet may also be beneficial. The long-term prognosis is cautious.

DIAGNOSTICS OF CARDIOMYOPATHIES.
Diagnostic testing undertaken by a veterinarian may include an electrocardiogram, radiography, biochemical and hematological blood tests. These tests cannot differentiate between types of cardiomyopathies; they can only provide information about the vital functions of other organs. This information is important for choosing the appropriate treatment. Exclusive tests such as echocardiography and angiography, which advanced veterinary clinics or veterinary colleges can afford, can differentiate between types of cardiomyopathies.

DRUGS USED FOR TREATMENT.
Treatment is aimed at reducing the load on the heart and improving blood oxygenation. The therapeutic regimen varies depending on the type and severity of cardiomyopathy. Patients may also benefit from a low-sodium diet to prevent fluid retention. Some drugs used by veterinarians:

Furosemide is a diuretic prescribed for cats in cases of pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs). The primary effect of furosemide is to block sodium reabsorption.

Digitalis increases the strength of heart contractions and reduces the frequency. Therefore, the drug is used to control atrial tachyarrhythmias (acute irregular heart rhythm). Veterinarians must exercise strict supervision over the dosage of the drug due to its toxicity. Its acute manifestations are associated with vomiting, loss of appetite and diarrhea.

Vasodilators (nitroglycerin, hydralysine, capopril, etc.) affect blood vessels, usually reducing their peripheral resistance. This effect is important in counteracting the vasoconstriction that occurs in heart failure. Vasodilators can prevent pulmonary edema by reducing pressure in the pulmonary circulation.

Propranolol improves ventricular filling by prolonging atrial conduction time. In combination with digoxin, it reduces the ventricular rate in atrial fibrillation. Propranolol should not be used in cats with asthma, bradycardia, and some types of heart failure.

Dobutamine (Dobutex) is used intravenously for acute heart failure.

SECONDARY MYOCARDIAL DISEASES.
Infectious myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle caused by an invasive or infectious agent such as a bacterium, virus, fungus or protozoan. Treatment consists of a combination of a diuretic and an anticoagulant.

KIDNEY DISEASES.
When the kidneys are damaged, they cannot function adequately. This dysfunction also affects the cardiovascular system. The kidneys produce erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the formation of red blood cells. Kidney disease reduces the production of erythropoietin, leading to anemia. Anemia stimulates the circulatory system to increase circulation.

When the kidneys are unable to remove waste, the accumulated toxins stimulate vomiting and diarrhea, which flushes out potassium. This deficiency is further aggravated when the added potassium is excreted in the urine. As a result, hypokalemia causes atrial and ventricular extrasystole.

Hypertension (abnormal increase blood pressure) develops because the kidneys cannot remove adequate amounts of sodium from the body. Sodium retention leads to fluid retention in the body, which causes circulatory failure. Chronic hypertension is the cause of cardiac hypertrophy, because the heart must work harder to counteract hypertension.

Treatment includes diuretics to remove excess fluid, propranolol, and a vasodilator (hydralysine).

HYPERKINETIC CIRCULATION DISORDERS.
This cardiovascular diseases, which cause an increase in cardiac output. Cardiac output depends on the heart rate and the volume of blood ejected into the aorta during contraction of the left ventricle. Causes include hyperthyroidism, severe anemia, and arteriovenous anastomosis.

Hyperthyroidism. Cats with hyperthyroidism produce an excess of the hormone thyroxine. Thyroxine directly increases metabolic rate and heart rate. Increased metabolism and oxygen consumption in hyperthyroidism leads to the production of excess heat, which in turn leads to vasodilatation (vasodilation). As a result, blood flow in the vessels increases and the heart rate increases. As the heart rate increases and the oxygen demand of peripheral tissues increases, the work of the heart increases. Cardiac hypertrophy develops over a period of time.

Approximately 50% of cats with hyperthyroidism have an enlarged heart, as determined by ECG, x-ray, or echocardiography.

Anemia. Heavy chronic anemia stimulates increased circulation to compensate for the decrease in the number of red blood cells (oxygen carriers). This is manifested by an increase in heart rate and an increase in the diameter of blood vessels (vasodilation). Treatment is aimed at correcting the underlying cause.

Arteriovenous anastomosis. Arteriovenous anastomosis is an abnormal direct connection between an artery and a vein, bypassing the capillaries. A birth defect and, less commonly, penetrating injury may cause a shunt. Cardiac output increases if bypass surgery results in significant return of blood into the venous system. The incidence of arteriovenous anastomosis in cats is low.

Treatment consists of surgical closure of the shunt. If decompensated heart failure has developed, it is necessary to carry out appropriate drug preparation before surgery.

PERICARDIAL DISEASES.
Cats rarely suffer from these diseases. Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and decompensated heart failure are the most common causes of acquired pericardial disease. The primary manifestation of these diseases is cardiac tamponade (compression of the heart by fluid filling the heart sac). This compresses the heart and reduces its ability to stretch and contract. Echocardiography in such cases is decisive diagnostic procedure.

Treatment is based on identifying and eliminating the cause. Primary relief of pressure in the cardiac membrane can be achieved by pericardiocentesis (aspiration of pericardial fluid through a needle puncture). The extracted fluid is analyzed to determine the cause of pericardial effusion. Antibiotics, steroids and diuretics may be used for treatment. Surgery may be indicated to relieve constrictive pericarditis. If the cause is found to be FIP, the prognosis is poor.

HEARTHELMINTHS.
Fortunately, cats are facultative hosts for heartworms, but the disease can still occur in them.

BLOOD VESSELS.
Various problems can affect the blood vessels, such as thrombosis from blood clots or increased blood pressure due to hypertension.

ARTERY THROMBOEMBOLISM.
The arteries become blocked by blood clots (emboli) that block the lumen. Causes include cardiomyopathy, congenital heart disease, bacterial endocarditis, cardiac trauma (eg, cardiac surgery, catheterization, penetrating cardiac injury), or injury to the aorta or peripheral arteries.

Signs of arterial thromboembolism appear in the area of ​​obstruction. For example, if the femoral artery is blocked, the cat may experience lameness or paralysis of the limb whose blood supply has been affected. If the blood supply to the brain is affected, then the signs are neurological in nature: head tilt, incoordination, sudden death.

Tests to aid in diagnosis include electrocardiography, angiography, and biochemical research blood. Treatment depends on the location of the occlusion and its cause and may consist of anticoagulants, vasodilators, and platelet suppressors. Follow-up visits are important to monitor your cat's progress in treatment.

Arteritis (vasculitis). It is an inflammation of the artery wall caused secondary to infectious agents such as FIP, bacterial endocarditis, heartworms, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, arthritis, or medications.

Signs depend on the severity and location of damage to the arterial wall. Usually initial signs include depression, decreased appetite, weight loss, increased thirst and polyuria, lameness and pain. More advanced signs include neurological symptoms, progressive renal failure, diarrhea, abdominal pain, sudden bleeding and skin ulceration.

Because the disease is multisystem, the list of diagnostic tests used by veterinarians to determine the primary cause can be extensive. Treatment depends on the cause.

BLOOD.

For hemorrhagic and hemolytic anemia Blood transfusion can play a life-saving role until the cause is eliminated. Unfortunately, the inadequate production of red blood cells in FeLV is irreversible, and therefore the prognosis for FeLV-induced anemias is usually poor, although the life of affected cats can be prolonged in some cases with blood transfusions and symptomatic treatment of secondary diseases.

In FeLV-negative cats whose bone marrow has been damaged by toxins or drugs, blood transfusions can buy time for the brain to recover. Sometimes the bone marrow responds to stimulation with steroids and anabolic hormones. If this does not happen, transfusion may be helpful. bone marrow from a donor cat.

POLYCYTHEMIA.
Polycythemia is general increase the number of red blood cells in the blood, resulting from excess bone marrow activity. Physiological compensatory polycythemia can occur as a response to a lack of oxygen in the tissues (for example, in pulmonary or cardiovascular diseases). Relative polycythemia occurs when plasma volume is reduced and red blood cell concentration is increased (dehydration). Polycythemia vera There is a myeloproliferative disorder of unknown cause, in which the number of not only red blood cells, but also white blood cells and platelets increases. Polycythemia vera is quite common in humans, but rare in cats. Good long-term control in humans consists of periodic blood testing and phlebotomy to maintain the hematocrit around 45%. When the platelet count rises to a level dangerous for the formation of clots, thrombosis, or embolism, drugs that have a suppressive effect on the bone marrow are used. In rare cases, polycythemia develops with leukemia.

LEUKOCYTE DISORDERS.
Septicemia (blood poisoning). White blood cells play an important role in protecting the body from various harmful influences, especially against wounds and infections. They quickly migrate to the site of injury or to a foreign body, suppressing infectious organisms. When the lesion is local, the response may also be local, but in systemic infections, especially if bacteria or their toxins are present in the blood (septicemia), total leukocytes can sharply increase with the formation of juvenile forms. In cases of severe septicemia, the white blood cell count may drop below normal - a fatal sign. Although white blood cells often fight off infection, long-term infections require treatment with antibiotics. Antibiotics are often selected by veterinarians based on research, so culture of pus, tissue, or blood with antibiotic sensitivity titration may be required.

It is rare to observe abnormalities in the structure of leukocytes in cats during microscopic examination.

Chediak-Higashi syndrome. This inherited autosomal (non-sexual) recessive trait has been described in Persian cats. Normal Smokey Blue Persians have copper-colored irises. Affected Persian cats have yellow-green irises with unusual plexuses. Microscopically, they are characterized by round eosinophilic inclusions (granules) in which neutrophils, lymphocytes and eosinophils are found. These inclusions are not related to hypersensitivity affected cats to infections. However, a tendency to bleeding has been described. Severe or progressive clinical disease has not been reported in Persian cats with this syndrome.

Perget-Huet disorder. This disorder has been described in cats and is characterized by nuclear deficiency in segmental granulocytes, which can lead to damage to the function of the latter.

Mucopolysaccharidosis. A group of congenital disorders in cats characterized by inclusions (granules) in neutrophils and lymphocytes. The cause of the disease is enzyme deficiency.

Leukemia. Leukemia is a form of myeloproliferative disease or cancer that causes malignant transformation of white blood cells. Abnormal white blood cells unable to perform protective functions against various pathogens, are reproduced in excess quantities in the bone marrow, suppressing the production of red blood cells. Feline leukemia virus is the most common cause of leukemia.

MYELOPROLIFERATIVE DISORDERS.
These disorders may involve certain types of bone marrow cells. Their formation usually leads to leukemia, which is characterized by a corresponding proliferation of the cells involved: granulocytic or myelogenous (neutrophilic group), eosinophilic or basophilic. Red blood cell proliferation (erythraemic myelosis) also occurs, as do leukemias involving cells of non-medullary origin (lymphocytes, monocytes, plasma cells and mast cells. Feline leukemia virus may be the cause of most of these diseases.

Signs may include weakness, pale mucous membranes, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, liver and spleen, and a tendency to bleed. Diagnostic tests include hematology analysis, FeLV test and bone marrow aspiration. Treatment of myeloproliferative diseases in cats is ineffective.

The prognosis for all forms of myeloproliferative diseases is poor. Unlike lymphosarcoma (lymphoma), which is sometimes curable, it is not a localized tumor but a systemic disease; Chemotherapy and radiation may be helpful, but they damage the bone marrow. The possibility of transplanting healthy bone marrow into cats in place of the removed diseased tissue is being investigated.

PLATELET DISORDERS.
platelets, or blood platelets- disc-shaped anucleate cells formed in the bone marrow from megakaryocytes. They are necessary for proper education blood clots. Therefore, platelet disorders alter blood clotting time.

Thrombocytopenia. Premature destruction or insufficient production of platelets leads to a decrease in the number of platelets in circulation. A more obvious indicator of thrombocytopenia is capillary bleeding (from the gums, from the nose) and reddened areas on the skin. Anemia may also present.

Diagnostic tests used for differential diagnosis may include platelet count, prothrombin time, complete hematologic analysis, bone marrow aspirate, various immunologic tests (eg, antinuclear antibodies, rheumatoid factors), and Coombs' test.

Primary treatment aimed at controlling bleeding. Blood transfusion may be necessary at this stage. Drugs used for treatment include corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs that stimulate platelet production. Splenectomy may be helpful in treatment because the spleen is the main site where platelet destruction and production of antiplatelet antibodies occurs.

Follow-up is necessary to monitor the progress of treatment. Relapses can occur suddenly, due to vaccination with live virus vaccines, infections, estrus or pregnancy.

Immunological destruction of platelets (occurring as a result of an antigen-antibody reaction against host tissue) is less common in cats than in dogs. The cause of this disorder may be an autoimmune disease such as red systemic lupus, tumors or infections.
Non-immunological platelet destruction or platelet injury can be caused by vaccination with live virus vaccines, vascular diseases, known drugs and infectious agents (Rocky Mountain fever).

Decreased platelet production may be caused by bone marrow suppression, feline leukemia virus, chemical toxins, immunological disorders, or radiation. Of the diagnostic tests, bone marrow examination is decisive for this pathology.

Thrombocytosis. This is an abnormal increase in the number of platelets circulating in the blood. Thrombocytosis may be caused by myeloproliferative disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, cirrhosis, malignancy, osteomyelitis, or platelet release from the spleen.

Signs and diagnostic tests the same as for thrombocytopenia, of course the test results are opposite. Treatment is aimed at the underlying cause.

MIXED COAGULATION DISORDERS.
Disorders of the blood clotting mechanism are rarely observed in cats. Birth defects in cats can be caused by deficiencies of clotting factors VII and XII. In such cases, blood clot formation is insufficient and bleeding may recur (hemophilia). This condition is most effectively treated with whole blood or plasma transfusion.

The liver requires vitamin K to produce clotting factors VII, IX and X. Rodenticides containing coumarins or indanedione can destroy vitamin K, leading to bleeding. Outdoor cats are more susceptible to rodenticide poisoning because they have a greater likelihood of eating poisoned rodents. Treatment consists of administering vitamin K for several days.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a secondary complication of various disorders. In DIC, coagulation factors are activated primary cause, which leads to the formation of small clots in the arteioles. The body responds by producing chemically induced plasminogen, which dissolves the clots. During the dissolution process, anticoagulants are formed. The end result is hemorrhages. Treatment of DIC aimed at correcting the identified cause.

Unfortunately, our purring friends quite often suffer from all kinds of heart diseases, both congenital and acquired. Diseased heart the cat may not manifest itself in any way until he has a heart attack. That is why we suggest that you familiarize yourself with information on the main cardiac diseases of cats - we hope that this knowledge will allow you to be more attentive to the health of your animal.

Common heart diseases in cats

Let's look at what diseases are most common in our pets:

1. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). This disease accounts for 65% of all cases of heart pathologies in cats. HCM is an inherited disease that is most common in certain breeds. You can read more about this disease in our article “Cardiomyopathy in cats, symptoms and treatment of the disease.”
2. Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is an acquired heart disease, during which the chambers of the organ (ventricles) begin to overstretch, their walls become thinner and cannot contract normally, as a result of which the function of the heart noticeably decreases. An interesting fact: before the discovery of the value of the amino acid taurine (the disease develops when there is a lack of it in the diet), the incidence of DCM was 50% - a fairly high figure. But when scientists proved the importance of getting taurine from food, and feed manufacturers began to enrich their diets with this amino acid, the value dropped to 5%. These are very encouraging results, especially considering that the average survival rate of cats after presentation severe symptoms with DCM it is only 11 days.
3. Restrictive cardiomyopathy occurs in 15% of cases. This is fibrous (that is, connective tissue) degeneration of the endocardium (inner lining of the heart) or endo- and myocardium (heart muscle). In this case, the elasticity of the organ is lost, and it cannot pump blood normally. During this illness, symptoms develop quickly and the prognosis is poor.
4. In 3% of cases, arrhythmogenic dysplasia of the right ventricle is detected - a disease in which fibro-fatty degeneration of the heart muscle occurs.
5. In 12% of feline heart diseases are secondary processes.

The last category includes heart defects - congenital and acquired, which we have already discussed in detail in the article “Heart defects in cats”. The most common birth defect is the interventricular septum, Tetralogy of Fallot, dysplasia mitral valve and triscupid valve dysplasia.

Heart problems as a complication

Cardiovascular diseases of cats often develop as complications of any systemic diseases, such as:

Myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, often occurs in cats. Moreover, the exact cause of this disease has not been identified, and its diagnosis is often difficult, since upon examination the heart looks the same as in HCM. Some cats experience myocarditis without a threat to life, and self-healing occurs, and some are diagnosed only posthumously.

Heart attack

It is also worth mentioning heart attacks. We have already mentioned in the article “Heart attack in a cat: main symptoms and first aid” that cats are not diagnosed with myocardial infarction. But this does not mean that they do not have this pathology at all - microinfarctions can occur as a complication of other diseases.

For example, with the same hypertrophic cardiomyopathy due to blood thickening small vessels hearts are beating. As a result, a tiny piece of tissue dies - at first this does not manifest itself in any way, but when there are many such areas, the myocardium thickens even more, and its elasticity decreases, which has a bad effect on the functioning of the heart.

How do heart problems manifest in cats?

Almost all cardiac problems of the heart manifest themselves in a similar way. The main signs of heart disease in cats are symptoms of heart failure resulting from improper or insufficient functioning of the organ. We already talked about this in the article “Heart failure in cats: symptoms and treatment”, but let's see how often certain symptoms can be found in cats:

• a heart murmur (detected by a doctor during a standard examination of the animal) is present in 60% of cases;
• shortness of breath occurs in 50% of animals suffering from heart disease;
• frequent heartbeat - 30%;
• lethargy - in 20% of cases;
• accumulation of fluid in the chest cavity - 20%;
• liquid in abdominal cavity- at 10 o'clock%;
• rhythm changes - 10%;
• fainting - in 5%;
• blood clot formation - in 7.5%.

Also for some heart defects and borderline states cyanosis (blue discoloration) of the mucous membranes (lips and tongue) develops.

Many signs of heart disease in cats do not appear until exercise or stress, so owners often do not notice changes in their condition. domestic cat up to the development of dangerous conditions (you can read about some of them in the article “Cardiogenic pulmonary edema in cats”).

Who is at risk?

Cats of certain breeds (Ragdoll, British, Scottish fold, Sphynx, Maine Coon, etc.) must undergo mandatory cardiac examination, as they are prone to the development of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. But this does not mean that the yard Murka cannot have heart disease, she is simply much less likely to develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which does not cancel out other congenital and acquired diseases.

Obese animals and older cats are often susceptible to acquired heart disease. Heart problems in cats suffering from chronic and systemic diseases are not uncommon in veterinary practice.

Therefore, owners should be attentive to the health of their animals, monitor any changes in their condition and, after 8 years of age, regularly conduct cardiac examinations, if possible, especially before surgical interventions.

The most informative and completely harmless method is echocardiography, which you can read about in the article “Why does a cat need an ultrasound of the heart.”

Heart disease in a cat is not always a death sentence. Despite the fact that there are conditions with a poor prognosis, in many cases it is possible to maintain the animal’s life at the proper level for many years with the help of modern drugs. When manifested dangerous symptoms Don’t despair, but it’s better to make an appointment with a veterinary cardiologist.

What canned food tastes best for cats?

RESEARCH ATTENTION! You and your cat can take part in it! If you live in Moscow or the Moscow region and are ready to regularly observe how and how much your cat eats, and also remember to write it all down, they will bring you FREE WET FOOD SETS.

Project for 3–4 months. Organizer - Petkorm LLC.

Heart disease in cats, which can be congenital or acquired, is one of the most common causes of death of our smaller brothers. Recently, in veterinary medicine, heart diseases are quite often diagnosed in domestic animals of various age groups and breeds.

Unfortunately, cat breeders turn to the clinic when the disease reaches a chronic, extreme stage, and this in turn implies long-term and possibly lifelong therapy. In some cases, cardiac pathology can only be overcome by surgical treatment. Therefore the owners furry pets not only must they know the causes of development and the main symptoms and manifestations of heart disease, but also take all possible measures to avoid life-threatening pathologies for animals.

The heart of animals is practically no different from human heart and performs the same functions in the body, taking part in blood circulation processes. The only difference is the ratio of the organ relative to body weight and heart rate. The heart pumps oxygen and useful material, saturating organs, tissues, and cellular structures with it.

Important! A cat's heart beats between 100 and 140 beats per minute. In kittens this figure is slightly higher. After activity, stress, or overheating, the heart rate increases.

Malfunctions of cardio-vascular system, cardiac pathologies of various etiopathogenesis worsen the quality, reduce the life expectancy of animals, lead to disruption of gas exchange, the functioning of internal organs and body systems.

Often pathologies, heart disease in cats, disturbances in the functioning of the cardiovascular system in animals occur against the background of diseases, infections of various etiologies and character. For example, one of the causes of cardiopathy can be called disturbances in the functioning of the thyroid gland. Due to the increased production of thyroid-stimulating hormone, the walls of the ventricles of the heart thicken, the volume of ejected blood decreases, which leads to the fact that the heart literally works for wear and tear.

Regarding breed predisposition, according to statistics, Bengals, Persian, Siamese, Thai, Abyssinian, Burmese cats and their mixed breeds suffer from heart ailments of various types.

In these breeds, kittens are often born with congenital heart defects. In this case, pathologies can develop at an older age.

In some cases, the causes of heart disease are unknown, and in order to determine what caused the malfunction of the cardiovascular system, a number of diagnostic studies and measures are required.

Main symptoms

Symptoms, signs, clinical manifestations cardiac pathologies are ambiguous. The general picture, the intensity of symptoms depends on age, conditions of detention, the presence of secondary, concomitant systemic diseases, general physiological condition, individual characteristics, form, and the root cause of the disease.

Often, owners reveal symptoms of heart disease during the transition to chronic stage, which could end tragically for pet. Therefore, always carefully monitor the behavior, condition furry pet and if there are any signs of discomfort or worsening of your condition, contact your veterinarian.

Important! Pathologies and diseases of the cardiovascular system can manifest themselves in cats of different age groups. Heart diseases are not always detected in elderly, old animals.

Signs of heart disease and pathologies in cats:

• weakness, decreased activity, lethargy, drowsiness;
• weak reaction to external stimuli;
• refusal to eat;
• heart rhythm disturbances (arrhythmia, tachycardia);
• fainting, signs of suffocation;
• breathing problems (shortness of breath, rapid breathing, cough);
• wheezing in the sternum, wheezing;
• pallor, cyanosis of mucous membranes;
• swelling on the body, ascites;
• dry nose;
• heart murmurs on auscultation;
• weight loss;
• fainting, convulsions, muscle spasms;
• temperature drop;
• violation of movement coordination.

Cats suffering from heart pathologies get tired quickly after active games, short activity. Animals may take unnatural positions and refuse food or treats offered.

Touching the sternum causes pain. Breathing is rapid (more than 35-40 breaths per minute at rest), shallow. Respiratory rate is measured by chest movement.

Important! The respiratory rate of cats is affected by weight, age, temperature environment, the state of the animal. So, in pregnant and lactating cats, in pets after physical activity breathing rate is increased.

Because of oxygen starvation animals stretch their necks forward and breathe with their mouths open. Cats often have swelling in their limbs and muzzle. Body temperature is unstable and in most cases low.

Heart pathologies in cats often cause convulsions, which are in many ways similar to epileptic seizures. Animals with heart failure try to move as little as possible and avoid physical activity. Possible loss of coordination of movements, frequent sudden fainting caused by dizziness, paralysis of the hind legs.

Given the non-specificity of symptoms, it is very important to carry out comprehensive diagnostic measures in the clinic. Diagnosis of heart pathologies in animals is quite complex, is carried out using special equipment and requires highly qualified veterinarians.

Diagnosis of cardiac pathologies

It is impossible to independently determine cardiac pathology in a pet without experience and special equipment. Heart disease, even in its early stages, may not manifest itself for several years. This is why it is very important to take your pet at least once a year for a checkup.

The diagnosis is made taking into account the combination of a number of studies, which include:

• ECHO (echocardiography).
• ECG (electrocardiography). The electrical activity of the heart is measured.
• MRI, CT.
• Tonometry.
• Physical research.
• X-ray. This technique allows you to determine the size and shape of the heart.
• Laboratory tests (serological studies).

In addition to the basic techniques, the doctor collects medical history data and takes into account the specifics of clinical manifestations.

Treatment and prevention

Self-medication if a cat has a heart disease, regardless of the degree of complexity, can lead to serious consequences. Therapy should be prescribed by the attending veterinarian, having the diagnostic results in hand. The choice of methods depends on the form, stage, complexity of cardiovascular pathology, as well as on the age, physiological state of the animals, and the root cause.

Important! If the pathology is detected at the initial stage of development, the animal is registered with the veterinarian. In the future, the veterinarian-cardiologist monitors the treatment and condition of the sick patient.

Treatment of most heart diseases in the early stages of development involves drug therapy. Cardiac glycosides, anticoagulants, drugs that normalize heartbeat, blood pressure, diuretics, restoratives, and symptomatic drugs in injections or tablets are used. Animals are prescribed special diet, medicinal feed, enzyme agents, vitamins, mineral supplements, immunomodulators.

The main task of cardiac therapy is to normalize the functioning of the heart, stop destructive processes in the organ, improve the condition of blood vessels, prevent the formation of blood clots, correct blood pressure. For each individual pathology, appropriate treatment and certain medications are prescribed.

Sick pets require optimal living conditions and a complete fortified diet. Food should contain proteins, taurine, vitamin A, B3, B6, B12, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, essential amino acids. It is very important to protect cats from stress, which not only disrupts the functioning of the heart, but also weakens the body.

In severe cases, to eliminate anatomical defects, if drug treatment does not produce results, surgical treatment is used, after which maintenance therapy is prescribed. If it is not possible to completely restore organ function, cats are prescribed lifelong treatment.

Types of Heart Diseases

Heart disease can be congenital or acquired. At the same time, they are all united by gradual progression. Heart diseases can be acute, subacute, or chronic.

Birth defects

Some heart diseases and pathologies in cats are congenital and hereditary. However, they are not common, only in 2.5-4% of kittens. The most commonly diagnosed developmental defects are heart valve, openings of partitions.

These pathologies include:

• stenosis (narrowing) of the aorta;
• stenosis of the ventricular efferent valve;
• defects of the interventricular and intervalvular septa;
• pulmonary stenosis;
• triatrial heart;
• endocardial fibroelastosis.

Important! Congenital heart pathologies manifest themselves at young and older ages. It all depends on the care, conditions of detention, individual, physiological parameters

Developmental defects valve apparatus detected at the mitral valve, which is located between the left ventricle and the left atrium. If the valve does not close properly, its functioning is impaired, blood does not flow into the atrium, which will lead to malfunction of the heart and accumulation of blood between the chambers of the organ.

Symptoms congenital pathologies heart disease varies depending on the specific disease. Anemia of the mucous membranes and skin, excessive thirst, irregular heart rhythm, respiratory failure, weakness, drowsiness, increased thirst, decreased activity - these are the main manifestations of congenital heart pathologies in cats.

The prognosis for congenital heart pathologies is in most cases unfavorable. Drug treatment gives an improvement, but animals, if there are no contraindications, are prescribed surgery.

Heart pathologies

It is simply impossible to consider heart pathologies that are diagnosed in cats in one article. Each disease requires special attention and review. Therefore, let’s imagine diseases that are diagnosed in veterinary medicine.

Cats are diagnosed

• pericarditis (inflammation of the pericardium);
• myocarditis;
• myocardosis (dystrophy of the heart muscle);
• cardiac arrhythmias, which, although not the main disease, indicate malfunctions of the cardiovascular system.

One of the most common pathologies is endocarditis.. Manifested by inflammation of the inner lining of the muscle. It occurs acutely and chronically. Depending on the localization of the process, it can be parietal (verrucous), valve (ulcerous). The nature of the changes is warty, ulcerative.

Pericarditis in cats they are more often idiopathic in nature. The pathology is accompanied by impaired blood flow, destructive, dystrophic, necrotic processes in the tissues of the organ.

Causes of pericarditis: hypothermia, weakening of resistance, fatigue, frequent stress. The initial stage is characterized by fibrin deposition, the formation of adhesions, and cardiac murmurs. Dry pericarditis in cats often progresses to exudative form. Parenchymal edema of organs and intoxication due to exposure to toxic products gradually develop.

Symptoms depend on the stage of development:

• tachycardia is noted;
• tachysystole;
• fever;
• pain in the heart area;
• symptoms of dehydration.

Arrhythmia, tachycardia, and other heart rhythm disturbances are not a separate pathology, but a symptom, a manifestation of some pathology or a consequence of inflammatory processes.

Treatment for any pathology is aimed at normalizing heart function, adjusting blood pressure, and eliminating the root cause.

Cardimopathy

Among all disorders of the heart, cardiomyopathy is most often diagnosed in cats of various age groups and breeds. Pathology caused by structural abnormalities in the muscular structures of a hollow organ, inevitably leads to disruption and dysfunction of the pumping system. In severe cases, congestive heart failure develops, which will lead to anemia and oxygen starvation.

Due to the accumulation of fluid in the pulmonary circulation, respiratory distress syndrome develops. Leads to the formation of blood clots that clog blood vessels. In cats, swelling, paralysis, paresis of the hind limbs are noted, acute anemia, fainting. If treatment is not started in time, the disease is fatal in 100% of cases.

Most cardiopathies in animals are of primary origin. The secondary form of the disease develops rarely and can be caused by surges in blood pressure, anemia, and hyperthyroidism.

In veterinary medicine, there are four types of primary cardiomyopathies in cats:

• Hypertrophic. Characterized by thickening of the myocardium, increased pressure in the cavities of the heart. Leads to the development of acute heart failure.
• Restrictive. With this pathology, there is a loss of elasticity of the myocardium, which leads to degeneration of organ tissue. The systolic and diastolic function of the heart muscle is impaired.
• Dilatational. Characterized by thinning and stretching of the heart walls. The heart enlarges and its contractile function is impaired.
• Arrhythmogenic. A rare genetically determined disease characterized by the replacement of normal tissues with fibrofatty tissue. The pathological process mainly involves the right ventricle.

Each disease has its own specific symptoms and manifestations. Some diseases are genetic hereditary origin. Thus, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is most often noted in Sphynx cats, Norwegian Forest cats, British cats, Maine Coons, Siamese, Abyssinian cats, as well as Redgall and Scottish Fold breeds.

Symptoms

Behavior changes in cats with cardiomyopathy. The condition may be stable until the pathology reaches a critical stage. The disease is manifested by weakness, drowsiness, breathing problems, and instability. Pulse and blood pressure changes.

Celebrate sudden changes emotional state. Bouts of calm alternate increased excitability. Cats meow pitifully, demanding the attention of their owners, hiding in secluded places.

Treatment

Treatment of cardiomyopathies in cats depends on the form and severity of the disease and most effectively on early stage development. Therapy is selected individually, in each specific case.

Used in treatment:

• beta blockers;
• medications to prevent thromboembolism;
• blood thinners;
• diuretics;
• calcium channel blocking drugs;
• vitamins;
• homeopathy.

If cardiomyopathy of any form and etiology is detected, the animals, despite their breed qualities, are removed from breeding.

Heart disease, both congenital and acquired, is quite common in cats. Their characteristic feature is constant progression; the onset is usually missed due to nonspecificity or lack of visible symptoms. Since impaired pumping function leads to deterioration in the functioning of other organs, cardiac pathologies directly affect the length and quality of life of a cat.

Causes of heart disease in cats

Factors leading to damage to the heart muscle have different development mechanisms. Among them are:

• Valve pathologies (stenosis, atresia, aplasia).
• Insufficient compression or incomplete relaxation of the myocardium.
• Arrhythmias.
• Vascular diseases that result in increased resistance to blood flow.
• Shunts between the chambers of the heart.
• Heartworm infection.
• Influence of infectious agents.

In most cases, heart failure develops as a result of these factors. If there is insufficient outflow of blood from the organs, then it is accordingly called stagnation.

Heart disease in cats symptoms

There are many diseases that affect the heart muscle. The symptoms are quite extensive, therefore there are several main factors by which classification occurs in the future:

• Origin of the disease. There are congenital and acquired pathologies, which affects the speed of manifestation of the first symptoms.
• Impact of external factors. Common causes of heart disease are infections, injuries, and degenerative processes.
• Duration. Heart diseases in cats are divided into acute, subacute, and chronic.
• Clinical status according to which treatment is prescribed. This includes left and right ventricular failure, dysfunction of both ventricles, atrial pathologies, valve diseases, and so on.
• Visualized defects. The causes of heart disease in cats can be defects in the septa between its different parts, valvular insufficiency, the complete absence of functionally important structures or their disposition (defects).

Owners most often notice breathing problems in sick cats. Shortness of breath is perceived as a sign acute pathology, but in reality it develops over months, sometimes years. Its appearance indicates severe damage to the heart, when failure reaches its peak and internal organs (primarily the brain) receive an insufficient amount of oxygen. Some cases of shortness of breath develop due to increased pressure in the pulmonary vessels, which also indicates the severity of the pathology.

Changes in the animal's body weight are possible. Fluctuations reach 500g within a week. Weight disorders include both rapid weight gain and sudden weight loss.

Coughing is a nonspecific sign of cardiac disease, practically indistinguishable from an animal’s attempts to regurgitate something. Diagnostic value has a dry, frequently recurring cough that is not associated with meals, often occurring after physical exertion or exposure to stress factors.

Paralysis, weakness of the limbs (usually pelvic). A complex symptom complex, the root cause of which is the formation of blood clots in the chambers of the heart. They are able to enter the bloodstream and obstruct the arteries that supply blood to different parts of the body. The arteries of the pelvic limbs are often clogged, but damage to the kidneys, brain, front legs and other parts of the body is also possible.

Signs of heart disease in cats initial stages usually nonspecific, which complicates diagnostic measures.

Diagnostics

To make a diagnosis, carry out:

• Anamnesis collection, including the nature of visible manifestations and the time of their onset.
• Appearance of the animal. Congestion in the left and right sections has different development mechanisms, which is reflected in the appearance of the cat.
• Physical examinations. Standard percussion and auscultation – informative method diagnosis of cardiac pathologies. They allow you to detect the expansion of the boundaries of the organ and hear noises without resorting to expensive procedures.
• Lab tests. With chronic damage to the heart muscle, changes in the results of clinical and biochemical studies can be detected.
• Instrumental examination. X-ray allows you to see changes in the shape and size of the heart, but the decisive method in making a diagnosis is echocardiography, which allows you to visualize the movement of blood through the chambers and evaluate functional state valves and walls, determine the load volume.
• IN in some cases cardiac catheterization is performed, which is considered specific method. Using a flexible tube inserted into the heart cavity, not only the functional, but also the anatomical condition of the walls and septa are assessed.

Heart disease in cats treatment

After diagnosis, the veterinarian develops a treatment plan, including medications, follow-up visits, and diet changes.

The main goals of therapy are to slow down destructive processes in the heart, prevent the appearance of fluid in the lungs, and normalize blood circulation and heart rate.

Depending on the specific disease, the following medications may be prescribed:

• Antihypertensive drugs.
• Diuretics.
• Anticoagulants.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Cardiac glycosides.
• General strengthening drugs – vitamins, immunostimulants.

Some heart diseases in cats that can be treated medications ineffective, require surgical correction. It is aimed at correcting anatomical defects, alleviating functional load and optimizing ejection.

Dear patients, in our clinic your animal can receive a complete cardiological examination, assessment of the functioning of the cardiovascular system and consultation with a veterinary cardiologist. Cardiological examination and appointment are conducted by doctors - Lidiya Mikhailovna Biryukova and Olga Vladimirovna Evstifeeva.