Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Welfare and Screening

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common heart disease in cats, causing heart failure, blood clots and sudden death, with screening available for some breeds.

Key Facts

HCM is most prevalent in Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and British Shorthairs
Genetic mutations in MYBPC3 have been identified in some breeds enabling DNA testing
HCM is often silent for years before causing sudden deterioration or death
Aortic thromboembolism (saddle thrombus) causes intense acute pain and paralysis
Echocardiographic screening allows early detection and monitoring

Welfare Considerations

HCM is a welfare concern both for the chronic deterioration it causes and for the acute suffering of complications like aortic thromboembolism. Regular cardiac screening in predisposed breeds allows earlier intervention and better quality of life management. Breeding decisions using genetic testing can gradually reduce prevalence in affected breeds.

What You Can Do

Have predisposed breeds screened for HCM from 18 months of age
Support breed registries with mandatory HCM screening requirements
Learn to recognise early signs of heart disease in cats - rapid breathing, lethargy