Can Cats Get Heart Attacks? Common Causes and Signs

Written by

Dr. Mafalda Sardinha

Updated Date

Aug 15, 2024

10 minutes

A veterinarian is holding a gray cat and using a stethoscope to examine its heart.

What Are the Reasons Why Cats Get Heart Attacks?

Several factors contribute to heart conditions in cats. Although rare, they’re still possible and most originate from underlying heart issues.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

HCM is the most prevalent heart condition in cats. It’s the thickening of the heart’s walls, impairing the heart’s ability to pump out blood. This will reduce blood flow and increase the chances of blood clots developing.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is believed to be hereditary in many cases, particularly in certain breeds like Maine Coons, Ragdols, and Sphynx cats.

High Blood Pressure

An excessively high blood pressure can also be the reason why cats get heart attacks. The high pressure will damage the heart and blood vessels. This leads to thickening, scarring, and an increased risk of developing blood clots.

Chronic Kidney Disease

When the cat’s kidneys fail, they can lead to increased blood pressure, which can then result in a heart attack. Plus, cats with CKD can also experience anemia and fluid buildup because of the kidneys’ inability to regulate fluid.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, speeding up a cat’s metabolism. In turn, this also forces the heart to pump faster and much harder, thickening the heart muscles and eventually leading to failure if left untreated.

Heartworms

Heartworm disease is caused by heartworms that can damage the heart and lungs. This can lead to severe cardiovascular issues in cats, including a heart attack.

While not as common as in dogs, heartworms can cause significant damage, leading to symptoms that may mimic a heart attack in some ways.

Age and Genetics

As with humans, age plays a role in the development of heart disease in cats. Older cats are more prone to heart conditions, particularly if they have a genetic predisposition. The wear and tear on the heart’s structures increases the risk as the cat ages.

Diet and Obesity

While cats don't typically develop cholesterol-related blockages like humans, obesity can still put a strain on their hearts and overall health. Poor diets can increase the chances of heart attacks in cats, particularly in older or genetically predisposed cats.

What Are the Symptoms of Cat Heart Attacks?

A veterinarian is listening to a cat's heart using a stethoscope while another vet is holding the cat.

When cats get heart attacks, certain symptoms will start to give you a couple of hints. The signs will mostly revolve around a cat’s circulation and energy levels.

Difficulty Breathing. One of the most alarming signs is when your cat has a hard time breathing. You may see your cat opening its mouth to breathe.

Coughing. Coughing can happen when the cat’s lungs become congested or irritated. It can also be because of the accumulation of fluid.

Lethargy and Weakness. Cats with heart problems will appear more tired and less interested in activities. They may sleep more and become incapable of physical activity.

Collapse and Fainting. Sudden collapse or fainting is a serious sign that the cat’s circulation is suboptimal. It can mean that the heart is not pumping out blood efficiently, which is an emergency.

Loss of Appetite. Cats may refuse food when they feel unwell, and a heart attack may be one of those reasons. Poor circulation can make them feel too weak to eat, preferring to lie down rather than get up and eat.

Hind Limb Paralysis. When cats get a heart attack, some may lose sensation in their hind legs. This happens because a blood clot blocks blood flow to the hind limbs. This can cause extreme pain.

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How Is a Heart Attack in Cats Diagnosed?

Two veterinarians are holding a gray cat on a metal table. One of them is using a stethoscope to listen to the cat's heart.

When cats get heart attacks, diagnosis is always the next step for effective management.

Physical Examination

We’ll start checking your cat’s body and overall condition. Our vets will use a stethoscope and listen to the heart for any abnormal activity.

Blood Tests

Blood tests are an important part of the process. They can check for kidney function, signs of an infection, and assess thyroid levels. If hyperthyroidism is suspected, we can do a thyroid panel to confirm it. These tests can also detect biomarkers that indicate heart muscle damage or stress.

Chest X-rays

Chest X-rays help us see the heart’s size and shape. From here, we can identify plenty of potential abnormalities. This includes thickened heart walls, fluid buildup, and changes in blood vessels.

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram is one of the most definitive tools for diagnosing heart conditions in cats. Here, we can start identifying issues like thickened walls, abnormal valve function, or clots. When cats get heart attacks, this is one of the most common tools we use.

Electrocardiogram

An ECG works by analyzing the electrical impulses in the cat’s heart. By doing so, we can detect any irregularities that might signal or indicate a heart problem.

Blood Pressure Measurement

Measuring your cat’s blood pressure is an important part of diagnostics. We start by applying ultrasound gel to the Doppler probe. Next, we place a cuff on the cat’s front leg. We can now use a probe on the skin until we hear an audible pulse. This is done at least three times.

Other Tests

In some cases, additional tests such as MRIs and CT scans can help get a clearer picture of the heart and surrounding structures when needed.

How Are Cat Heart Attacks Treated?

Heart attacks in cats are situations that require emergency care, and treatment should come as soon as possible. Here are the options our vets use:

Emergency Stabilization

If a cat collapses or shows sudden, severe symptoms, the first step is to keep it stable. This may include oxygen therapy, IV fluids, and medications meant for the heart. If there are blood clots, then we will use specific drugs to break them up.

Medications

Pet medications will be an important part of the treatment process. Here are the options that are typically used when cats get heart attacks:

Beta-Blockers. These medications slow down the heart rate and help restore pumping.
Diuretics. Diuretics remove excess fluid from the body.
ACE Inhibitors. They decrease blood pressure and help relax the blood vessels.
Anticoagulants. These help prevent the formation of blood clots.

Dietary Management

A healthy diet for cats is one of the most important things we consider. We will recommend specific diets for your cat, mostly those that have low sodium levels. With this and regular exercise, your cat can have a healthy weight.

Regular Monitoring

We’ll need to regularly monitor cats that have experienced heart attacks. This includes periodic blood tests, echocardiograms, and blood pressure measurements to make sure that the treatment plan is helping and their hearts are stable.

Managing Underlying Conditions

If heart disease in your cat is secondary to another condition, such as hyperthyroidism or kidney disease, treating the underlying issue is critical. Effective management of these conditions can improve heart health and overall quality of life.

How to Prevent Heart Attacks in Cats

An infographic showing the many ways to prevent heart problems in cats.

While heart attacks in cats can be prevented, there are lots of steps we can take as their caretakers.

Regular Vet Checkups

Regular checkups are great ways to monitor your cat’s health, especially its heart. When we have a great idea of your cat’s heart condition, we can formulate better treatment and prevention techniques to help keep your cat healthy.

Healthy Diet

Giving your cat a balanced diet that is healthy for its heart is one of the best ways to prevent heart disease. Avoid high-sodium foods and opt for diets that support cardiac health.

Weight Management

One of the simplest ways to keep your cat in good health is through exercise. Keeping good physical activity can help maintain a good weight. Playtime with cat toys, climbing trees, and interactive games are great ways to keep your cat active.

Monitor for Symptoms

Always monitor your cat for any symptoms or signs of trouble. If you notice any of the symptoms presented, then be sure to contact our vets right away. Any symptom that persists for too long can signal a health issue.

Breed Care

Some cat breeds are vulnerable to heart attacks, such as Maine Coons and Ragdolls. Make sure to keep your cat in the clinic more often so we can monitor for any conditions that could endanger its life. Good research also helps you take good care of your cat’s heart at home.

Avoid Stress

Stress and anxiety are two of the most common causes of different issues in cats. Keeping a safe and comfortable home for your cat can help it avoid any unnecessary heart conditions. This comfortable home comes with a good feeding routine, a clean litter box, and safe bedding.

Parasite Prevention

Heartworm prevention is important, especially if you live in an area where heartworms are common. Regular use of preventative medications can protect your cat from this serious condition.

“Keep your cat’s heart healthy and they’ll happily stroll into your arms.”
- Dr. Mafalda Sardinha

Final Thoughts

While it’s quite rare, cats can get heart attacks. Taking proactive steps to monitor and support your cat’s heart health not only extends their life but also enhances the quality of the time you spend together.