Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Cats

              -----------------------------------

                      General Information



Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is an abnormal thickening

(hypertrophy) of the heart muscle in cats.  It is unknown whether

the condition has a single cause or is due to a number of

factors.  Suggested causes include viral infections, an allergic

reaction (self-allergy), toxins and lack of the nutrient

taurine.



Thickening of the heart muscle causes both improper filling and

impaired pumping action, as well as abnormal heart rhythm.

These changes result in difficult breathing, fluid accumulation

in the lungs, blood clots and sudden death.  In mild cases,

lethargy and a poor appetite may be the only signs in the early

stages.



Male and female cats of any age may be affected, but the disease

is most common in middle-aged males.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  All drugs must be given as directed.  Please call the doctor

    if you cannot give the medication as directed. 



2.  Activity:  Your cat should be confined to the house for ____

    days/weeks and not exposed to stressful situations. 



3.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked. 



    ____Feed the normal diet. 



    ____Feed Prescription Diet h/d.



    ____Other:



    ____Feeding schedule for the above diet:





       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet's condition worsens.



    * Your pet cannot use its back legs or is in pain.



    * Your pet develops a cough.



    * Your pet refuses to eat.



    * Your pet's general health changes.