HCM is the most common cardiac disease in cats and can cause sudden death or heart failure. Screening allows early detection and management before welfare-compromising signs develop.
HCM creates a welfare challenge because many affected cats appear healthy until serious cardiac events occur. The detection of significant HCM before heart failure develops allows medication that delays progression and reduces the risk of sudden cardiac death and aortic thromboembolism. ATE, one of the most painful acute emergencies in veterinary medicine, causes paralysis and severe ischemic pain in cats with cardiac disease who develop blood clots. Preventing ATE through early detection and anticoagulant medication in high-risk cats represents a meaningful welfare intervention. Breeding programs using genetic testing in Maine Coons and Ragdolls reduce inherited disease incidence.