Cat Heart Attack Symptoms

A true heart attack occurring in a cat is extremely rare. Often, veterinarians use the term ̶0;heart attack̶1; to describe various other conditions such as heart disease, which may lead to sudden death or collapse. However, this does not mean that a heart attack is not a possibility, so owners should always keep an eye out for potential changes in their cat̵7;s health. Unfortunately, many of the symptoms of heart issues are clinical signs, meaning they are often detected by a veterinarian rather than by the owner.

  1. Syncope

    • In cats, an episode of collapse or fainting is referred to as a syncope. Syncope can be partial or complete and often is due to poor heart function, heart disease, abnormal heart rhythms or blood clots. During an episode, the cat may be limp or have stiff limbs, but should return to normal within a few minutes.

    Hypotension

    • During a physical exam, the veterinarian may note that the affected cat is suffering from low blood pressure, or hypotension. Fortunately, treating low blood pressure can decrease the cat̵7;s risk of suffering a heart attack.

    Bradyarrhythmia

    • Bradyarrhythmia is a term for abnormally slow heart rhythm. Slow heart rhythms are dangerous for several reasons, and it may be necessary for the affected cat to have a pacemaker. Slow heart rhythm, like many symptoms of a heart attack, is a clinical symptom that may only be noticed by the veterinarian.

    Tachyarrhythmia

    • A tachyarrhythmia is a term referring to a fast heart rhythm ,and like a bradyarrhythmia, it may only be noticed by a veterinarian. Tachyarrhythmia can cause collapse or sudden death, but treatment with an anti-arrhythmic drug can help decrease these risks.

    Arrhythmia

    • Along with fast or slow heartbeats, an abnormal heart beat may be present. Abnormal heart beats, or arrhythmias, can cause the cat to collapse or die suddenly.

    Diagnosis

    • For cats who suffer from mild fainting episodes, diagnosis may include a physical exam, blood tests, urinalysis, X-rays of the chest and abdominal area, a cardiac exam and an ultrasound of the heart (echocardiogram).

    Treatment

    • Since heart attack is used to describe various issues related to the heart, treatment often involves dealing with the underlying cause. Approaches can include treating the abnormal heart rhythm or low blood pressure with medication, or perhaps just adjusting the cat̵7;s diet.