Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Dogs and Cats

The heart has four chambers: two chambers at the top, the right and left atria; and two chambers on the bottom, the right and left ventricles. The left ventricle is responsible for receiving oxygenated blood from the lungs and pumping the blood out into the aortic valve, which feeds the oxygenated blood to all parts of the body. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is when the heart’s left ventricle is abnormally large or thick, this can affect left ventricle’s ability to pump blood into the aorta.  

Symptoms

  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Weak pulse
  • Decreased activity

Causes

Unknown in most cases, however genetic predispositions may lead to it.

Treatments

There is no know cure, however medication can be prescribed to help control the heart rate and prevent the formation of blood clots.

This condition is common in the following Dogs & Cats

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