Heart disease in cats is often a silent condition, going unnoticed until it becomes severe. Understanding the early signs, risk factors, and treatment options for feline heart disease is crucial to ensuring your cat’s long-term health.

At Stack Veterinary Hospital, we provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options to help detect, manage, and improve your cat’s heart health. This guide covers the signs of feline heart disease, diagnostic procedures, and available treatment options.

What Is Feline Heart Disease?

Types of Heart Disease in Cats

Feline heart disease refers to a range of conditions affecting the heart’s structure and function. The most common type is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), where the heart muscle thickens, reducing the heart’s efficiency. Other forms include:

  • Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) – The heart becomes enlarged and weakened, affecting its ability to pump blood.
  • Restrictive Cardiomyopathy (RCM) – The heart muscle becomes stiff, restricting normal blood flow.
  • Congenital Heart Defects – Structural abnormalities present from birth, though less common.

Early detection and treatment are key to managing symptoms and slowing disease progression.

Prevalence of Heart Disease in Cats

Heart disease affects up to 15% of the feline population, with some breeds being at higher risk. Maine Coons, Ragdolls, Bengals, and Persians have a genetic predisposition to heart disease. However, even mixed-breed cats can develop heart conditions, making routine veterinary screenings essential.

Learn more about heart disease diagnosis in cats from Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.

Recognizing the Early Signs of Heart Disease

Subtle Behavioral Changes

Cats are masters at hiding illness, so heart disease symptoms may be gradual and difficult to notice. Look for:

  • Decreased activity – Avoiding jumping, playing, or climbing.
  • Increased rest or isolation – Sleeping more or hiding frequently.
  • Reduced appetite – Weight loss or decreased interest in food.

Physical Symptoms

  • Rapid breathing (tachypnea) – Over 30 breaths per minute at rest.
  • Panting or open-mouth breathing – A serious warning sign.
  • Coughing or wheezing – Less common in cats but possible with heart disease.
  • Swollen abdomen – Due to fluid buildup (ascites).

Emergency Signs – If your cat suddenly collapses, has labored breathing, or experiences paralysis in the hind legs, seek immediate veterinary attention. These symptoms could indicate aortic thromboembolism (ATE), a life-threatening complication.

Diagnosing Heart Disease in Cats

At Stack Veterinary Hospital, our veterinarians use advanced diagnostic tools to detect heart disease early.

Veterinary Examination and Tests

  • Physical Exam – Detecting heart murmurs, abnormal rhythms, or breathing difficulties.
  • Echocardiography (Ultrasound of the Heart) – The most accurate test for diagnosing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and other heart conditions.
  • Chest X-rays – Assessing heart size and detecting fluid buildup in the lungs.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Identifying irregular heartbeats.
  • Blood Tests (NT-proBNP test) – Measures cardiac stress and helps detect early heart disease.

Schedule a heart screening today at Stack Veterinary Hospital’s Specialty Cardiology Services.

Treatment Options for Feline Heart Disease

Treatment depends on the type and severity of heart disease. While heart disease is not curable, proper management can significantly improve quality of life.

Medications for Heart Disease

  • Beta-blockers (Atenolol, Propranolol) – Help slow the heart rate and reduce strain.
  • ACE Inhibitors (Benazepril, Enalapril) – Help lower blood pressure and improve circulation.
  • Diuretics (Furosemide, Spironolactone) – Reduce fluid buildup in cases of congestive heart failure.
  • Anticoagulants (Clopidogrel, Aspirin) – Help prevent blood clots, reducing the risk of aortic thromboembolism (ATE).

Your veterinarian will determine the best medication plan for your cat based on diagnostic results.

Lifestyle Adjustments for Heart Health

  • Low-Sodium Diet – Helps manage blood pressure and fluid retention.
  • Minimizing Stress – Keep your cat’s environment stable and quiet to prevent heart strain.
  • Weight Management – Maintaining a healthy weight reduces excess pressure on the heart.

Caring for Senior Cats with Heart Disease

Managing Multiple Health Conditions

Older cats with heart disease may also have kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or arthritis, making treatment plans more complex. Balancing medications and dietary needs is crucial for long-term health.

For more senior pet care recommendations, visit AAHA’s guide on aging pet health.

At-Home Monitoring for Heart Disease

  • Track breathing rate – More than 30 breaths per minute at rest may indicate worsening disease.
  • Monitor weight and appetite – Sudden weight loss or decreased eating can signal disease progression.
  • Regular veterinary visits – Adjusting medications and checking for early complications.

Learn more about preventive testing for senior pets from Zoetis Petcare. Read here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Feline Heart Disease

Can a Cat Live with Heart Disease?

Yes! With early diagnosis, proper medication, and lifestyle changes, many cats with heart disease live long, happy lives.

Is Heart Disease Painful for Cats?

Heart disease itself is not typically painful, but complications like fluid buildup or blood clots can cause discomfort.

Can Heart Disease in Cats Be Prevented?

While some types of heart disease are genetic, regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, and stress reduction can help manage risks.

Should I Change My Cat’s Diet?

A low-sodium, high-protein diet is recommended for cats with heart disease. Always consult your veterinarian before changing your cat’s food.

Schedule a Heart Health Checkup at Stack Veterinary Hospital

Early detection and routine monitoring are key to managing feline heart disease. If you notice any concerning symptoms, schedule an appointment with Stack Veterinary Hospital for a comprehensive heart screening.

 Book an appointment today and take a proactive step toward protecting your cat’s heart health.