There are no definite causes of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) in cats. However, it is believed that it can be a genetically related disorder or result from pre-existing heart conditions such as congestive heart failure, heart murmurs, and blood clots. A cat with these pre-existing conditions may not have HCM. Cats with HCM may not have these pre-existing conditions, which can make early detection and diagnose extremely difficult. HCM causes a thickening of the heart muscle and is known as the silent killer because it can cause sudden death. It is generally found in young or middle-aged male cats. Breeds prone to the disease include the Cornish Rex, Maine Coon, and Ragdoll. HCM causes scar tissue to form on the heart which makes the heart too muscular and the main pump too small. Space for blood flow becomes limited. Your Rochester, NY vet can tell you that HCM is the most common cause of sudden death in house cats. Learn more here.
