Dilated cardiomyopathy is rarely seen in cats today. Historically, it was linked to a dietary deficiency in taurine, which has been corrected by most cat food manufacturers. DCM is characterized by a poorly contracting dilated left ventricle and oftentimes enlarged atria.
How long can a cat live with dilated cardiomyopathy?
They can also die without warning. Cats with severe disease generally have a poor prognosis. These cats usually don't live longer than six months after diagnosis.
What is the underlying cause for feline dilated cardiomyopathy?
Causes. While taurine deficiency greatly contributed to the onset of secondary feline DCM in the past, the underlying cause in the majority of DCM cases today remains unknown. In some families of cats, a genetic predisposition has been identified.
What is the most common cardiomyopathy in cats?
Suggested Articles. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most commonly diagnosed cardiac disease in cats. Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition that causes the muscular walls of a cat's heart to thicken, decreasing the heart's efficiency and sometimes creating symptoms in other parts of the body.
How is dilated cardiomyopathy treated in cats?
“DCM is treated with taurine supplementation, pimobendan and an ACE inhibitor,” said Dr. Sleeper, who sees a handful of feline DCM cases each year. Furosemide is the most effective and lifesaving treatment for cats with CHF, she said.
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