General observation of your cat with a heart problem is key and the owner should develop a habit of watching and monitoring their own cat on a daily basis to spot any differences.

 

Changes in appetite, water consumption, behaviour, respiratory rate etc. may indicate problems, e.g. medication side effects, worsening heart failure, another cardiac complication.

 

Be Aware… Cats tend to hide signs of illness. Once the owner is aware that their cat is ill, the condition is already quite advanced and serious. Early detection is key for your beloved animal! Keep looking for the following signs:

  • Restlessness - if your cat suddenly becomes restless at night, keep an eye on it and look for other signs of heart disease.

  • Weakness/Depressed/Withdrawn - if your cat is less playful or tires easily due to weakness; exhibits changes in behavior, for example appearing depressed, or isolating itself, the behavior may be caused by heart disease.

  • Poor appetite - if your cat suddenly loses its appetite for no reason, keep an eye on it and look for other signs of heart disease.

  •  Weight change - if your cat suddenly loses weight, keep an eye on it. Note: weight loss is definitely a symptom of heart disease, though weight gain can be, as well.

  •  Fainting/Collapsing - If you find your cat has fainted or collapsed, it may be a sign of heart disease, seek veterinary help immediately.

  •  Swollen Abdomen - a bloated or distended abdomen.

  •  Thromboembolisms - Symptoms are pain and the inability to walk normally on the hind legs. The femoral pulse may be weak or absent in one or both hind legs,  it may be a sign of heart disease, seek veterinary help immediately.

  • Breathing difficulty - If your cat’s breathing becomes labored, more rapidly than usual or if there is a shortness of breath, it may be a sign of heart disease, seek veterinary help immediately.

  •  Vomiting –  your cat can vomit as a result of heart disease!

 

Observation of Your Cat is key!