Heart disease and heart failure are common in older cats.

Heart Failure vs Disease

Heart failure is a decrease in cardiac output (blood flow), causing an increase in blood pressure.

The most common type of heart disease in older cats is cardiomyopathy. This is an enlargement and weakening of the heart. It can take two forms: the heart muscle can become weak and dilated or it can thicken and become stiff. Either way the result is reduced blood pressure. As a result, not enough blood is reaching the other organs. Blood clots can also occur.

Prognosis

If discovered early enough, cats can continue to live long lives with proper diet and medication if warranted. A low sodium diet is important to prevent fluid build up. Diuretics, either Lasix or herbal, may also be utilized. Extra nutrition is needed to make up for the nutrients being lost in the urine. Mild exercise helps keep the heart muscle strong. Coenzyme Q10 is necessary for the proper functioning of heart muscle.

Symptoms of heart disease include lethargy, difficulty breathing, cough, bluish gums and distended abdomen due to the fluid accumulation. The cat may tire easily and have a fast, weak pulse.

Annual checkups are necessary in order to catch any trouble early when it is most treatable.

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