Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Cats: Murmurs, Aortic Thromboembolism and Echocardiography

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common cardiac condition in domestic cats, impacting approximately one in seven felines. It is characterized by abnormal concentric thickening of the left ventricular myocardium, impairing diastolic filling and elevating left atrial pressures.

Sources

This guide is not a substitute for a vet.

Veterinarian performing thoracic cardiac auscultation on a cat using a pediatric stethoscope — Photo: Nekolife

In this guide

1. The "5 Ps" of Feline Aortic Thromboembolism

Pain: Severe distress and continuous vocalization.
Paralysis: Inability to stand or bear weight on pelvic limbs.
Pulselessness: Absence of femoral pulses.
Pallor: Cyanotic or marble-white foot pads.
Poikilothermia: Cold hind paws compared to the forelimbs.

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2. Emergency Veterinary Care

Transport immediately to an oxygen-equipped emergency facility if you witness hind-limb paralysis or open-mouth breathing. Use our directory of emergency veterinary clinics.

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Scientific Sources and Evidence

ACVIM: Consensus Guidelines for the Classification, Diagnosis, and Management of Cardiomyopathies in Cats.
ISFM: Feline Cardiomyopathy and Aortic Thromboembolism Protocols.

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