Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common heart disease in cats, often silent until crisis. Early detection and management significantly improve welfare outcomes.
HCM causes significant welfare suffering, both chronically and acutely. The sudden onset of congestive heart failure — dramatic respiratory distress, open-mouth breathing, and collapse — is a welfare emergency. Aortic thromboembolism is among the most painful conditions affecting cats — paralysis with ischaemic pain from tissue dying without blood supply. Owners are often unaware of HCM until crisis, meaning preventable welfare emergencies occur. Echocardiographic screening of at-risk breeds identifies disease early, allowing monitoring and preventive anti-platelet therapy that reduces thromboembolic risk. The genetic basis in some breeds means responsible breeding decisions can reduce future prevalence.