Cats are masters at hiding illness, and heart disease is no exception. In fact, many cats with heart disease appear completely normal until heart failure or other complications develop. Since February is Heart Month, it’s a great time to talk about feline heart disease—what it is, how common it is, and why early detection matters.
What Is Feline Heart Disease?
The most common form of heart disease in cats is called cardiomyopathy, a condition in which the heart muscle becomes abnormal. The condition is usually not caused by other illnesses; instead, it develops within the heart muscle itself.
The Most Common Types of Cardiomyopathy
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): HCM is by far the most common heart disease in cats. The heart muscle becomes abnormally thick, making it harder for the heart to relax and fill with blood. HCM affects cats of any age and is seen in both mixed-breed and purebred cats. Some breeds are at higher risk, such as Maine Coons, Ragdolls, Persians, and Sphynx cats.
- Restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM): RCM is less common than HCM. This condition causes the heart muscle to become stiff, limiting how well the heart fills with blood.
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM): DCM is rare in cats. It causes weak heart contractions and heart enlargement. It is now uncommon thanks to improved feline nutrition.
There are other forms of cardiomyopathy, but they are seen far less frequently.
How Common Is “Silent” Heart Disease in Cats?
One of the most important things cat owners should know is this:
Many cats with heart disease have no outward signs at all.
Heart disease with no signs is called subclinical heart disease, and it is especially common in cats with HCM. Some cats may live for years without showing any signs, and the condition is often discovered by chance:
- When a heart murmur or abnormal heart sound is detected – although many cats with HCM don’t have heart murmurs.
- During pre-anesthetic testing, before a procedure that includes cardiac biomarkers.
How Is Heart Disease Detected?
Echocardiography (Heart Ultrasound)
A heart ultrasound, or echocardiogram, is the best and most accurate way to diagnose heart disease in cats. It allows a veterinarian to:
- Measure heart muscle thickness
- Evaluate heart function
- Assess risk for heart failure or blood clots
Blood Tests (Cardiac Biomarkers)
Blood tests like NT-proBNP can help identify cats that have underlying heart disease, especially when an ultrasound is not immediately available. While helpful, this test does not diagnose heart disease.
Other Tests
X-rays and ECGs are useful in cats that already have symptoms, but they are not reliable screening tools for silent heart disease.
Are There Genetic Tests for Heart Disease in Cats?
Yes, there are genetic tests—for certain breeds. Validated genetic tests exist for mutations associated with HCM in:
- Maine Coon cats
- Ragdoll cats
- Sphynx cats
These tests are most helpful for:
- Breeding decisions
- Early identification of at-risk cats
Not all cats with a mutation will develop disease, and many cats without known mutations can still develop heart disease.
Why is it Important to Find Heart Disease Early?
Detecting heart disease before symptoms appear allows for better long-term care and safer decision-making.
Early detection helps with:
- Risk assessment for heart failure or blood clots
- Monitoring disease progression over time
- Becoming alert to early warning signs
- Planning anesthesia and medical care more safely
While not all cats with early disease need medication, knowing the condition exists allows your veterinary team to tailor monitoring and care to your cat’s individual risk.
Talk to Your Veterinarian
Heart disease in cats is common, often silent, and best detected early. Routine veterinary exams, appropriate screening, and breed-specific testing when indicated can make a meaningful difference in outcomes.
This Heart Month, talk with your veterinarian about your cat’s heart health—especially if your cat has a heart murmur, is a higher-risk breed, or is preparing for anesthesia. Early awareness can truly save lives.
