Heart disease and heart murmurs in cats

It is not normal for a cat to have a heart murmur.

So what is a heart murmur and should my cat's heart murmur be treated?

Recognizing heart murmurs in cats

First, how does your veterinarian diagnose heart murmurs? One of the reasons I am such an advocate of the annual veterinary exam is because I want to "take your cat in my hands" and perform a thorough physical exam. Part of my exam is to auscultate (or "listen" to) your heart and lungs with a stethoscope - actually listening for abnormal sounds and rhythms. You can see your vet listening between your cat's armpits. That's because anatomically the heart sits near the front of the chest cavity (in the third to fifth rib area). 

So what are we listening for? When we listen to the heart, it should be a normal, clear, distinct heartbeat. There should not be any unusual "whistling" sound. If I hear that "whooshing" or "rushing" sound, that's a sign of a heart murmur.

Next, I listen to the pulse to see if there is a cardiac arrhythmia, which is an abnormal heart rhythm. In cats, the heart rate should be between 160 and 220 beats per minute (bpm). (Although this sounds very fast, it is because many cats are agitated or nervous in the veterinary clinic. At home, your cat's resting heart rate should be around 140-160 beats per minute). If you can imagine a metronome, your cat's heart should have a steady, fast rhythm. If your cat has a cardiac arrhythmia, it means that there is an unusual pattern in the heartbeat, such as pause-pause-pause-pause. Sometimes cats also have a heart arrhythmia called "galloping," named after the sound of a galloping horse. Regardless, a cat should not have a heart murmur or arrhythmia. 

How heart murmurs are "evaluated" in cats

In veterinary medicine, heart murmurs are rated on a scale of 1 to 6, with 6 being the loudest and 1 being the quietest. Sometimes a heart murmur and/or arrhythmia can be innocent and not caused by a primary disease. Sometimes we hear it with pain, nervousness, dehydration, or anemia; it's usually quiet (like a 1 or 2/6 heart murmur). But sometimes the heart murmur and/or arrhythmia can be caused by primary heart disease or defects/malfunctions (e.g., >3/6 heart murmur). This is much more serious as it can lead to congestive heart failure, acute stroke and death.

Unfortunately, cats can get frustrated when it comes to diagnosing heart disease. It is estimated that 50% of cats with significant heart disease (or even heart failure) do not have the heart murmurs we can detect with our stethoscopes. Confusing, but the bottom line is that if a heart murmur and/or arrhythmia is heard, an examination would be warranted.

Why the age of diagnosis is important

The age at which your cat was diagnosed with a heart murmur affects how aggressively I recommend veterinary therapy by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist. If your kitty is diagnosed with heart murmurs early in life, it should be checked frequently! If the heart murmur does not go away after a couple of weeks, a more thorough medical examination is needed, as the heart murmur often has a congenital cause. A congenital defect means that the kitten is born with a defect that can be caused by improper nutrition, exposure to medications or drugs, environmental conditions, infection, poisoning, or, more commonly, hereditary causes. Heart defects ranging from holes in the heart (e.g., atrial or ventricular septal defect) to valvular defects (e.g., valve dysplasia) to abnormal narrowing of parts of the heart or major blood vessels (e.g., patent ductus arteriosus, aortic stenosis, etc.) can be fatal without diagnosis and treatment.

The sooner we diagnose a heart murmur in a kitten, the sooner we can intervene and treat it. I should know that the cat I fostered years ago had a severe congenital heart defect (with a heart murmur 6 out of 6) and only survived until she was 3 years old. 

So what if your healthy pet was just diagnosed during a visit to the vet for a routine checkup and had no symptoms? Well, as your cat gets older, it's important to know if the heart murmur is getting louder - from 2/6 one year to 3/6 the next. If it is, a checkup is a must. 

Causes of heart disease in cats

The most common types of primary heart disease in cats (excluding congenital causes) include:

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).
• Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
• Restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM)
• Unclassified Cardiomyopathy (UCM)

In HCM, the heart muscle thickens too much. In DCM, the heart muscle becomes too "flexible" and loses its ability to contract. DCM is often associated with a lack of taurine, an important amino acid needed in cat food (this is one of the reasons I am a strong advocate of AAFCO-approved, balanced cat food). In RCM, there is too much scar tissue or fibrosis in the ventricle, which prevents an effective heartbeat. Unclassified cardiomyopathy means that there are cardiac abnormalities but they do not fit into any of the above categories.

As for secondary causes, you should know that heart murmurs can occur in cats with certain conditions such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), chronic anemia, or hypertension. If your cat has been diagnosed with any of these conditions, treatment is very important. Otherwise, your cat may die from other complications or have long-term side effects (such as heart failure)!

Signs of heart disease in cats

Signs of heart disease in cats include:

• Pale gums. 
• Increased breathing rate.
• Open mouth, panting.
• Rapid heartbeat 
• Collapse
• Sudden paralysis of the hind legs (called saddle sores).
• Screaming in pain
• Inability to walk
• Fainting
• Sudden death

Investigation of heart murmurs in cats

A heart murmur investigation includes a thorough physical examination, particularly of the thyroid gland, pulses, kidney and bladder size. Blood pressure is also measured, routine blood tests (to rule out the above medical problems), and chest and lung x-rays. Depending on what these tests show, the next step may be a referral to a board-certified veterinary cardiologist for an echocardiogram (ultrasound) of the heart. These tests usually cost between $500 and $800 for an ultrasound and examination, but they are very important in determining if your cat has a life-threatening heart condition. 

Depending on the results, your cat may be treated with heart medications that will make the heartbeat more effective. Even with treatment, heart disease can eventually lead to heart failure and a secondary accumulation of fluid directly in the lungs (called pulmonary edema) or outside the lungs in the chest cavity (called pleural effusion). Both can be life-threatening and can lead to heart failure.

Treatment for heart murmurs in cats

When it comes to heart murmurs in cats, it's important to remember that the sooner we diagnose them, the sooner we can treat your cat with the right medications so that the heartbeat is more effective and prevents heart failure. Some of these medications may include:

• Beta blockers to slow the heart rate.
• Calcium channel blockers to relax the heart and lower blood pressure
• Diuretics to prevent fluid accumulation in the lungs or chest.
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors to make the heart beat more effectively and treat high blood pressure.
• Anti-stroke medications such as aspirin or clopidogrel

Remember that these medications do not treat heart disease in cats. Instead, they help prevent exacerbation of heart disease. 

Prognosis

Your cat's prognosis for heart disease depends on the type of heart disease and the severity of the heart ultrasound findings. If in doubt, talk to your veterinarian about long-term control and treatment of your cat's heart murmur. Most importantly, prevent feline murmurs and feline heart disease with annual veterinary exams!

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Amoxicillin for Cats: Dosages, aspect outcomes and extra

Stumped at the fundamentals of amoxicillin for cats? Allow’s look at why cats need it within the first area, the right dosage, capacity aspect consequences and greater.

For many longtime cat guardians, amoxicillin for cats might not be a thriller. It's miles an antibiotic drug, in the penicillin circle of relatives, used to restrict the increase of bacteria. In line with Tufts university and scientific news these days, it treats the lot from bronchitis to Lyme disease to urinary tract infections in human beings. Amoxicillin for cats is used often on kitties with pores and skin infections, urinary tract infections and ear infections.

He always used an antibiotic together with clavulanic acid for illnesses like urinary tract infections and gastrointestinal infections. So, I’d say more modern vets are probable going with clamor (an antibiotic with clavulanic acid) over amoxicillin, but it’s in reality your veterinarian’s name.” depending on your vet’s preference, your cat can also presently be on it. Right here’s the scoop about amoxicillin for cats.

When is amoxicillin for cats vital?

It’s used in the remedy of cats with infections caused by bacteria, which includes wounds (like animal bites), bladder infections, enamel abscesses, eye or ear infections, pores and skin infections and respiration infections. It could be used on GI infections, however it’s not effective in opposition to parasites (like tapeworms). Antibiotics are also typically advocated after surgical techniques, but Cummings Veterinary scientific center at Tufts university indicates it’s prescribed on an in step with-case basis.

Dosing amoxicillin for cats

• Observe the timetable. One of the most essential things about amoxicillin for cats is to make sure you supply the medication on the specific time and for the complete length it’s prescribed — even in case your cat’s signs and symptoms are gone. In case you stop the medicine earlier than the prescribed stop-date, you are making your cat at risk of a fair worse disorder that might be impossible to treat. The world health enterprise states that antibiotic resistance is one among the biggest threats to global fitness!
• Never self-prescribe. Let’s say your cat seems to have an infection similar to the one he had final year, and you have a few amoxicillins from one in all your illnesses inside the residence. Amoxicillin for cats is not the same as amoxicillin for people. Vet info reports it can be toxic in your cat. Confirm each sickness’s origins before treating it. It may be a viral contamination, in which case, amoxicillin is useless.
• Get a second opinion. In case you experience that your cat is taking lots of antibiotics, and no longer sincerely enhancing, visit any other veterinarian. Along with a probable misdiagnosis, amoxicillin for cats and different antibiotics come with facet effects. So being on them for an extended period of time with none improvement can be a red flag that something is incorrect.

Ability side outcomes of amoxicillin for cats

What approximately treating your cat with alternative medication?

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 Here's how to make a cat your training partner

Jafari Jamison Underfoot is a cat like no other. Not only has he mastered the art of wearing a harness and leash, but he also goes for daily walks with his owner, which often turn into short sprints. The beautiful Abyssinian cat lives in scenic Vancouver, British Columbia, and has access to beautiful hiking trails and the Pacific Ocean. "People just watch in disbelief. They're not used to seeing a cat run," says his owner Christopher Weeks.

How did Jafari become such a great role model for active cats? Christopher says he started training his pet as a kitten. He taught Jafari to wear the harness through positive reinforcement, pairing it with treats and positive praise.

After he got used to the harness and leash inside, they went outside. "We went for regular walks, and Jafari always stayed on his feet. Then, one day, he started picking up the pace. That's when we started running," the cat's father says proudly.

Jafari doesn't run long distances, but Christopher says the two are short-distance runners who take lots of breaks. "We walk, run, stop, scratch and sniff, and then do it all again."

Train with your cat by tailoring the training to them individually.

Dr. Liz Stelow, a board-certified veterinarian at the University of California, Davis, says that unfortunately, Jafari is not the norm. "Most cats don't get enough exercise. I think most cat owners don't think about exercising their cats. It doesn't even occur to them that their cat might find it beneficial."

The behavioral veterinarian advocates that people and their cats exercise together. "We all need physical and mental exercise for our physical and mental health," she says. "Cats and humans need exercise to keep muscles in shape, the body lean and the brain adequately supplied with blood." But while some cats can go outside, the veterinarian says the decision should be based on your cat's personality. A fearful cat who hides under the bed will likely be reluctant to participate in outdoor adventures.

Dr. Stillow insists that this is not a problem. There are many more things you can do together, especially with toys. Stick toys are a universal favorite of all cats. She personally uses Go Cat brand wand toys, especially the Mouse Catcher Wand, although she stresses that each cat is individual, so experiment to see what works for your little lion.

Since so many people work at home, the vet says that walking around the house with a cat chasing you and a toy is good exercise. Doing it just once a day for five minutes is great exercise for both you and the kitty.

Also, when choosing toys, make sure they don't fall apart and cause swallowing or get into the cat's stomach:

• Avoid yarn, elastic cords, strings, threads, bells or other small parts that can come loose or be chewed off.
• Never allow your cat to use hanging toys when you are not present, as they can pose a strangulation hazard.
• Avoid cheap catnip toys because of the potential for mold.

Dr. Stillow also gives high marks to Doc and Phoebe's Indoor Hunting Feeder. The interactive feeder, which consists of small plastic mice that you fill with dry food, gives your kitty a higher calorie count when she tries to find the dry food. The ever-popular cat feeder is also a favorite of California veterinarians.

Record your training program

Besides running, walking and playing with toys, what else can you do with your kitty? More and more cat owners are getting creative:

Walks/Runs: Can't get your cat into a harness or it's getting cold outside? Walks or runs are ideal because they help your cat get used to life. Your cat can feel safer scampering around in a stroller, and you can walk or run! Gradually increase the amount of time your cat spends in the stroller, and put treats and toys in it to associate the stroller with positive things.

Cat yoga: meow must-have! Get out your mat and cat and sign up online for your favorite yoga class. Kittens are curious and will try to get your attention when you start the Downward Dog class. They will interrupt you, but know that you will be stretching a bit while your cat jumps and climbs on you.

Cat Weight Lifting: Use your cat as a dumbbell or medicine ball. Actor and weightlifter Travis DesLaurier uses his cat Jacob as a workout buddy. Whether it's leg lifts or push-ups, the orange tabby helps the man keep his abs toned. Travis even has a YouTube video that shows you exactly what to do for a great strength workout.

Burning calories outdoors

The trend of people exercising their cats also caught the attention of Laura Moss, co-founder and editor-in-chief of Adventure Cats, an outdoor cat lifestyle website. She created the site as a resource and community for cat owners. "The kitties have exceeded my expectations. They are capable of so much more than what they are given," says the outdoor enthusiast.

Her book, website and social media pages feature cat lovers around the world getting active with their living room lions. You can see cats in every national park in the country, put cats on cat sleds and send kittens on hikes, but the Atlanta-based writer believes you have to respect your cat. "If they don't like being outside or doing an activity, don't force them; it will only hurt your relationship with your cat."

Christopher repeats this statement. But fortunately, his active Abyssinian loves the outdoors and can handle her adventures. "He has made people not like cats, but love them. We are so proud of him for being a cat ambassador who can show the world all the wonderful things you can do with a cat. Cats need exercise, and it's always better when they can do it with you."

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The one aspect all proprietors need to do to bond with their cats!

My enjoy With Cats

I’ve owned cats in all my lifestyles. When I was a kid I used to dream about proudly owning a white cat. They fascinated me again then and still do now.

Harry appears distinct considering Charlie handed away. He’s not eating as a great deal and his persona has modified.

A few matters come with revel in

owning a cat is surely quite simple and if you are a caring man or woman with common experience and are organized to permit them into your life for the next 15 years or so, then you definitely’ll do just satisfactory.

Frightened and tense Cats

The subsequent trick works specially properly with felines which are, for something motive, tense or frightened.

What Do You need To Do To Bond together with your Cat?

Sluggish Blinking and Yawning

Observe these simple step-via-step commands to make your anxious cat feel plenty extra secure!

What you’re in the long run going to reap right here is to make your cat experience more comfortable to your presence.

Instead of your cat worried approximately what’s going to appear when they see you, they'll in the end associate you with a sense of comfort and safety.

Step 1

As quickly as your eyes meet, very slowly near them. Preserve them closed for a couple of seconds and then slowly open them.

Step 2

Step 3

As soon as, at some point of each interaction, after blinking, very slowly to an exaggerated yawn.

The method Works

Summary

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 10 Ways that will change your life when you adopt a cat

Your Cat's Sleep schedule Is Your New Sleep agenda

You watched you get to sleep in as it's Sunday? No longer whilst you've got a purring kitty lying in your face till you rise up and fill the meals bowl.

Perhaps you will be one of the fortunate few whose cat sleeps through the night and doesn't wake up till you do. However, for the public of cat parents, our sleep schedule is definitely dependent on how long kitty desires to allow us to sleep.

You could even wake to the sound of paws running from room to room in the middle of the night, simply due to the fact. This is cat good judgment.

Doing Chores goes To Get difficult

Getting work completed can also Take a touch Longer

Get at ease With a total lack of privatenesses

Your Social Media Belongs on your Cat

You likely did not suppose it become feasible to top off all the gigs of garage space for your smart phone with cat images by myself, however right here you're finding out which shots you may probably bear to part with.

You will be extra Humble

Getting Grossed Out Is A issue Of The past

You'll Get faster -- a great deal quicker

Unconditional Love, Of course

 What can i Do If My Cat Isn’t Getting sufficient exercising?

Entertain Kitty With New Toys

Initially, you’re going to want to think about the quandary of cat toys.

Now I recognize that there are some smooth-going tom cats obtainable who will play with anything you throw their manner. But many cats are brilliant finicky and dismiss store offered toys, whether they’re cheap plastic balls or steeply-priced electronic units.

Upload A field Into the mixture

A tactically-placed cardboard field on the ground is also a clever way to interact your pussycat in exercise.

Get them to stalk and chase toys round, over, and in the box. In the end, we understand that it’s scientifically impossible for cats to withstand  the entice of cardboard.

This is a pleasing, cheap manner to maintain your kitty busy. Simply bear in mind to keep your shipping containers the subsequent time you order something on-line.

Supply Them area To Climb

Top is also key. I understand that cat bushes are quite a good deal the epitome of ugly home decor, however think of your cat mountain climbing as much as their sound asleep perch as a chunk-sized turn on a step gadget.

When you have the distance and DIY nous to mount some cat cabinets at the wall, that’s additionally a clean manner to ensure that your tom cat is having a laugh while getting their daily step rely on up.

Eventually, in case you’re inside the dependency of rewarding your cat with treats, make it part of their exercise routine with the aid of throwing them throughout the floor to chase after. And if you manifest to do so from the vantage of the sofa, that’s ok, too.

How do you hold your cat in shape? Do you've got any a laugh guidelines for energetic play time? Let us realize inside the comments beneath!