Signs & Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure in a Cat

Congestive heart failure is a serious condition when the lungs are affected by the buildup of fluid. If you suspect your cat is suffering from this condition you will need to seek advice from a veterinarian immediately. There are signs and symptoms you can watch for to determine whether a visit to the vet is necessary.

  1. Long-term Signs and Symptoms

    • According to Roger L. Welton, DVM, cats who have congestive heart failure often have a long-term history of having a heart murmur. Exercise intolerance is also a long-term sign of congestive heart failure that often is not associated with the condition or is not even noticed.

    Minor Signs and Symptoms

    • Though these symptoms are minor and most likely in the early stages of congestive heart failure, it is the best to seek veterinary care at this time so that you can prevent the condition from worsening and possibly save your cat's life. These symptoms include: weakness, weight loss, fatigue and lack of appetite.

    Severe Symptoms

    • During the advanced stages of congestive heart failure it is critical to seek immediate veterinary care. These symptoms include: difficulty breathing, coughing, fainting and turning blue. These symptoms could become fatal very shortly if not taken care of immediately.

    Signs During the Veterinary Examination

    • If you know what to look and listen for when waiting for the results of the veterinary examination you can know what to expect and what it means. If your cat is suffering from congestive heart failure your veterinarian will notice the following signs and symptoms during the examination, according to Dr. Welton: irregular heart beat, high blood pressure, crackly lung sounds, muffled heart beats, distended belly full of fluid and enlarged heart and lungs in an X-ray.

    Prognosis

    • Congestive heart failure is not necessarily a death sentence to your cat. Your cat could live a normal and even long life. The prognosis of the condition depends on the stage in which you catch the disease and the adaptation to treatment.