Cardiomyopathy

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Cardiomyopathy is a condition of the heart muscle seen in dogs,

cats and ferrets.  Most affected ferrets are males over three

years of age.



The cause for this condition is unknown.  The muscle walls of the

heart become thickened, reducing the ability of the heart to

pump adequate quantities of blood to the rest of the body.  Signs

include inappetence, fatigue, increased periods of sleep,

intolerance to exercise, fainting and shortness of breath.



Cardiomyopathy is diagnosed using chest x-rays, an

electrocardiogram (EKG), and echocardiography (a diagnostic

technique using ultrasound waves).  All ferrets older than three

years should have an EKG to screen for this disease.