Heart Disease
Cats commonly develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM); dogs commonly develop mitral valve disease (MVD) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Certain breeds have notably higher risk.
Cats: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
HCM is the most common heart disease in cats — the ventricular wall thickens abnormally, affecting the heart's pumping function. Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and British Shorthairs are notably more prone than other breeds, possibly linked to specific gene mutations. Feline heart disease often shows almost no signs early on; many cases aren't discovered until an acute episode (difficulty breathing, sudden hind-limb paralysis).
Dogs: Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
MVD is common in small breeds like Chihuahuas, Maltese, Poodles, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, where the heart valve gradually degenerates and leaks with age. DCM is common in large breeds like Dobermans and Great Danes, where the heart muscle wall thins and contracts less forcefully. Canine heart disease signs are usually more obvious than in cats, including coughing, easy breathlessness, and reduced activity.
At-Home Monitoring: Sleeping Respiratory Rate
Cardiologists recommend a standard at-home monitoring method: count breaths per minute while your cat or dog is fully asleep and calm. It should be under 30 breaths/minute during quiet sleep — if it consistently exceeds this, see a vet as soon as possible. Chronlo's "Respiratory Rate Counter" feature is designed around this clinical method.
Key Care Points
Most heart disease currently can't be cured, but medication can slow progression and improve quality of life. Diagnosed cats and dogs should follow their vet's recommended schedule for regular cardiac ultrasound follow-ups, and medication should never be stopped or adjusted on your own.
Want to track this over time? Try Chronlo
A chronic-care app for cats and dogs: daily logs, trend charts, blood test OCR, and medication reminders — all your pet's health data in one place.
Sources:
- ACVIM（American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine）心臟病共識聲明
- EveryCat Health Foundation
This site is for general reference only and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis. If your cat shows unusual signs, please see a vet promptly.