Heart Murmur in Cats: What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment
Heart murmur in cats is a condition that can significantly affect a feline’s health and quality of life. As a pet owner, discovering that your cat may have a heart murmur can be concerning. This article aims to provide you with comprehensive information about feline heart murmurs, including their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
What is Heart Murmur in Cats?
A heart murmur in cats refers to an abnormal blood flow within the heart, which produces a characteristic whooshing sound. Veterinarians can detect this murmur by using a stethoscope during a routine examination. To further investigate the cause of the murmur, your vet may recommend additional tests, such as an echocardiogram (heart scan), to assess the underlying heart condition and its implications for your cat’s health.
What Are the Grades of Heart Murmur in Cats?
Feline heart murmurs are categorized into grades based on their severity. The grading system ranges from one to six, with one being the quietest and six being the loudest:
- Grade 1: Soft and often difficult to hear
- Grade 2: Soft and may still be challenging to detect
- Grade 3: Easily heard when the stethoscope is first placed over the heart
- Grade 4: Audible across the heart and both sides of the chest
- Grade 5: Loud murmur with a palpable vibration across the chest wall, detectable before the stethoscope touches the chest
- Grade 6: The loudest murmur, often audible without a stethoscope
Is Heart Murmur in Older Cats Common?
Heart murmurs are more prevalent in middle-aged and senior cats compared to younger ones. In younger cats, a heart murmur is often associated with congenital heart disease—conditions present from birth. If you suspect your cat, regardless of age, may have a heart murmur, consult our doctors at Acacia Pet Hospital for a thorough evaluation.
How Long Will a Cat Live With a Feline Heart Murmur?
The lifespan of a cat with a heart murmur largely depends on the underlying condition causing the murmur. With appropriate treatment and veterinary care, many cats can live for several years, even with severe murmurs. Regular consultations with your veterinarian are crucial to determine the best treatment options for your cat.
What Causes Heart Murmur in Cats?
Several factors can lead to heart murmurs in cats, including:
- Congenital heart disease
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: A disease that affects the heart muscle
- Age-related heart failure
Additionally, murmurs may arise from conditions affecting circulation, such as:
- Cat pregnancy
- Obesity in cats
- Anemia
- Sudden weight loss
What Are the Signs of Heart Murmur in Cats?
Cats with severe heart murmurs (grades 4-6) may exhibit various clinical signs, including:
- Poor appetite
Weight loss - Lethargy
- Breathing difficulties
- Pale gums
If you observe any of these symptoms in your cat, it’s essential to contact our doctors at Acacia Pet Hospital immediately. Understanding your cat’s body language can also help you identify when something is not right.
How is Feline Heart Murmur Diagnosed?
A veterinarian can diagnose a heart murmur by listening to your cat’s chest with a stethoscope. This method allows them to hear the characteristic whooshing sound associated with feline heart murmurs. They will also assess the grade of the murmur for further evaluation.
What is the Treatment for Heart Murmur in Cats?
Not all feline heart murmurs require immediate treatment; some may only need careful monitoring. However, if treatment is deemed necessary, your veterinarian may prescribe medications to support heart function and manage fluid buildup. Regardless of whether treatment is required, attending regular veterinary check-ups is vital for your cat’s health.
We hope this article on heart murmurs in cats has been informative and helpful. Fortunately, many cats with feline heart murmurs can still lead long, happy lives. If you have any concerns about your cat’s health, please consult our doctors at Acacia Pet Hospital.
If you need more help or have any questions, call us at Acacia Pet Hospital: acaciapetclinic.com, (408) 264-6354, 4486 Pearl Ave, San Jose, CA 95136
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm or visit us online.
