Though feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common type of cardiomyopathy seen in cats, dilated cardiomyopathy can occur as well. Where hypertrophic cardiomyopathy results in a thickened heart muscle with smaller heart chambers, dilated cardiomyopathy causes the heart chamber to be dilated or enlarged.
Diagnosing Cats with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
A physical examination of a cat with dilated cardiomyopathy may or may not reveal a heart murmur. Other examination findings may lead to a suspicion of congestive heart failure or indicate that a thromboembolism has occurred.
An echocardiogram is the most useful diagnostic test in diagnosing dilated cardiomyopathy. An echocardiogram is an ultrasonographic examination of the heart. The results will show the dilated heart chambers and changes in the heart muscle.
Taurine levels in the blood can be measured to confirm a taurine deficiency. A diet deficient in taurine can cause dilated cardiomyopathy.
Other laboratory tests, such as blood testing, chest radiographs (x-rays) and blood pressure measurement, may be necessary to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms and to evaluate the other body organs.
Treatment of Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Cats
If taurine levels are deficient, adding a taurine supplement to the diet or switching to a diet with adequate amounts of taurine can result in an improvement of symptoms resulting from dilated cardiomyopathy relatively quickly.
Other medications used to treat feline dilated cardiomyopathy include ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors (such as enalapril or benazepril) and/or pimobendan (Vetmedin®). Anticoagulants are often used to prevent clot formation and include aspirin or clopidogrel (Plavix®).
If congestive heart failure is present, diuretics such as furosemide (Lasix®) are indicated as part of the treatement. High blood pressure may need to be treated as well with medications such as atenolol or amlodipine.
Learn more: Feline dilated cardiomyopathy