Palpitations in cats
Palpitations in cats, also known as tachycardia, is a condition in which the cat’s heart beats faster than normal. Generally, a heart rate of over 220 beats per minute is considered palpitations.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
A cat’s heart normally beats between 120 and 220 times per minute, depending on factors such as age, size, and physical activity. Palpitations occur when the heart beats at a faster rhythm than usual, which can have various causes.
A common cause of palpitations in cats is stress or anxiety. Situations that make the cat anxious or overwhelmed, such as vet visits, new environments, or loud noises, can trigger an increased heart rate.
Diseases of the heart itself, such as cardiomyopathy, can also lead to palpitations. These diseases affect the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently, often leading to a compensatory increase in heart rate.
Other health problems, such as hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid), high blood pressure, or anemia, can also be causes of palpitations. These conditions can affect the cat’s metabolism and lead to increased cardiac activity.
Medications or toxins that affect the heart or nervous system can also cause palpitations. Some medications used to treat other health problems have an increase in heart rate as a side effect.
Typical accompanying symptoms
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Respiratory distress: A cat with palpitations may breathe quickly or heavily. This happens because the heart is not working effectively enough to meet the body’s oxygen needs.
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Lethargy: The cat may seem unusually tired or have a reduced activity level because its body is not adequately supplied with oxygen and nutrients.
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Loss of appetite: Palpitations can reduce a cat’s appetite because it feels unwell or due to the exertion that palpitations entail.
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Cough or Gagging: In some cases, palpitations may be associated with a Cough, especially if fluid enters the lungs, which may indicate heart problems.
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Weakness or collapse: In severe palpitations, there may be sudden weakness or even collapse, as the heart is unable to pump enough blood.
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Pale or bluish mucous membranes: Insufficient oxygen supply can lead to pale or bluish mucous membranes in the mouth or on the lips.
When to visit the vet?
It is important to see a veterinarian if your cat shows signs of palpitations, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as respiratory distress, weakness, or collapse. These symptoms may indicate serious health problems that require immediate medical treatment.
An immediate visit to the veterinarian is also necessary if the cat shows signs of respiratory distress or has difficulty breathing. Breathing problems can indicate heart or lung problems and can quickly become life-threatening.
If the cat suddenly collapses or behaves extremely weakly, this is an emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. A collapse can be a sign of acute Heart failure or other serious health problems.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
It is often difficult for pet owners to recognize palpitations themselves, as cats can hide their symptoms well. Pay attention to subtle signs such as Behavioral changes, breathing, or activity level of your cat. An increased heart rate can sometimes be felt by palpating the chest, but this requires experience and should be confirmed by a veterinarian.
The veterinarian will perform a complete physical examination to check the heart rate and look for other signs of heart problems. A stethoscope will be used to listen to the heartbeats and detect unusual noises or rhythms.
Additional diagnostic tests may be required to determine the cause of the palpitations. These may include blood tests to check thyroid function and anemia, chest X-rays to assess the heart and lungs, and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to analyze the electrical activity of the heart.
Echocardiography, an ultrasound examination of the heart, can also be performed to identify structural problems or abnormal movements of the heart chambers. This examination helps to diagnose specific heart diseases and determine the severity of the disease.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
As a pet owner, you can take some measures to calm your cat and reduce stress, which can help lower the heart rate. Make sure your cat is in a quiet and safe environment, free from loud noises or other stressful factors.
Observe your cat closely and note any symptoms or Behavioral changes that you notice. This information is important for the veterinarian to make an accurate diagnosis and plan appropriate treatment.
Avoid moving or stressing your cat unnecessarily, especially if it shows signs of respiratory distress or weakness. Keep it calm and warm until you are able to take it to the vet.
It is important that you follow all veterinary instructions carefully and give your cat the prescribed medication as directed by the veterinarian. Regular check-ups are crucial to monitor your cat’s health and make adjustments to the treatment.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.