Home » Diseases » In cats » Persistent Right Aortic Arch (Heart Vessel Anomaly)

Persistent Right Aortic Arch (Heart Vessel Anomaly) in cats

Occurrence: very rare
Location of illness: Chest

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Definition

PersistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. (PRAA) is a congenitalCongenital means “present from birth” and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. vascular anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later. in cats where the right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. persists as the main aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. instead of the left. This leads to compression of the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis)., resulting in difficulty eating and other health problems.

The most important facts at a glance

Persistent right aortic arch is a vascular anomaly in cats that develops during embryonic development when the right fourth aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. persists instead of regressing. This leads to an atypical arrangement of the large vessels and can constrict the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis)., hindering the passage of food. Common symptoms include regurgitationRegurgitation is the reflux of food or liquid from the stomach into the mouth without Vomiting or strong abdominal muscle contractions. It may be a sign of diseases of the esophagus or other gastrointestinal problems. of food, difficulty swallowing, and growth disorders in young cats. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made through clinical examination and imaging techniques such as X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions. or CT scans to confirm esophageal compression. Treatment usually requires surgical intervention to relieve the compression. SupportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures such as special feeding techniques may be necessary to ensure nutrition. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is usually good with early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and successful treatment, but long-term complications can occur in more severe cases. Preventive measures are limited due to the genetic nature of the anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later., but responsible breeding practices can reduce the risk. Research focuses on genetic aspects, improved diagnostic methods, and new surgical techniques to enhance the treatment and quality of life for affected cats. Scientific findings are exchanged worldwide to optimize veterinary care.

Causes

The aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. is an important part of the circulatory system that normally originates from the left ventricleA ventricle is one of the two lower chambers of the heart that pump blood into the arteries. The right ventricle pumps blood to the lungs, while the left ventricle pumps blood throughout the body. on the left side of the heart. During embryonic development, mammals form several aortic arches, which then regress or form into other structures. In normal development, the left fourth aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. should persist and develop into the definitive aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system., while the right one regresses.

However, with persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system., the right fourth aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. persists, leading to an atypical arrangement of the great vessels. This abnormal vascular arrangement can pinch the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis). between the aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. and other structures, such as the ligamentum arteriosum. This compression can impair the normal passage / transitPassage refers to the passage / transit or transport of substances through the body or within body cavities and channels, such as the digestive tract or airways. of food through the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis)., leading to the clinical symptoms of the disease.

The exact cause of this anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later. is not yet fully understood, but genetic factors are believed to play a role. There is evidence that certain breeds have a higher predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases., which may indicate heritable genetic components.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

The symptoms of persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. in cats are primarily related to compression of the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis).. Affected cats typically show signs of difficulty eating, which can occur as early as puppyhood. These signs include frequent gagging, vomiting of undigested food, especially after eating, and a general aversion to eating solid food.

In addition, affected cats may show signs of Unterernährung or Growth disorders, as Futteraufnahme erschwert is impaired due to esophageal compression. In some cases, dilationDilation refers to the widening or expansion of a hollow organ or vessel. It can be physiological (normal) or pathological (due to disease). of the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis). may occur above the site of compression, which is referred to as megaesophagus. This can increase the risk of aspiration, in which food or fluids enter the airways, which can lead to Pneumonia.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of persistent right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. usually begins with a thorough clinical examination and collection of the cat’s medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits.. Suspicion of this condition may arise in young cats with the described difficulty eating and growth disorders. Imaging techniques are required to confirm the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

Chest X-rays may show enlargement of the upper part of the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis)., indicating an obstructionobstruction refers to the blockage or narrowing of a hollow organ or canal, which hinders the normal flow of liquids or gases. In dogs and cats, an obstruction can occur in the digestive tract, airways, or urinary tract and often requires immediate medical treatment.. A contrast X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions., in which a contrast agent is swallowed, can reveal the exact site of the compression. Another option is to perform a computed tomography (CT)Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. It enables a detailed view of bones, organs, and other structures and is used for the diagnosis of injuries, diseases, and for planning medical interventions. or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. to visualize the exact anatomyAnatomy is the scientific study of the structure of living things. It deals with the construction and organization of organisms, including their systems, organs, and tissues. of the vessels and their relationship to the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis)..

In some cases, an endoscopy of the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis). can be performed to obtain direct visual evidence of compression. These procedures help to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms, such as tumors or inflammatory diseases.

Therapy

Treatment of persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. usually requires surgery to relieve the compression of the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis).. The surgical procedure involves cutting the ligamentum arteriosum, which constricts the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis)., and, if necessary, removing other tissue structures that contribute to the compression.

Before surgery, supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures may be necessary to ensure the cat’s nutrition and minimize the risk of aspiration. This may include feeding soft or liquid food that can pass more easily, as well as feeding in an upright position to use gravity and facilitate food flow.

After surgery, the cat requires careful monitoring and care to ensure that it recovers well from the procedure. A gradual reintroduction of solid food may be necessary to check the function of the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis). and ensure that there are no further complications.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for cats with persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. depends on several factors, including the severity of the compression and the timing of diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment. With early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and successful surgical treatment, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is usually good, and many cats can live a normal life.

However, cats that have already experienced significant dilation of the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis). or repeated aspirations may have longer-term complications. In such cases, ongoing monitoring and occasional dietary adjustments may be necessary to maintain quality of life and minimize the risk of further problems.

Prevention

Unfortunately, there are no specific measures that can completely prevent the development of a persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. in cats, as this anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later. is genetic in nature. However, responsible breeding practices can reduce the risk. It is advisable not to use cats with this or related anomalies for breeding. Genetic counseling can help identify and minimize the risk in the breeding line.

In addition, it is important to have regular veterinary examinations to detect possible signs of heart or vascular anomalies early. A balanced diet and a healthy weight can also help promote the cat’s general well-being, although they do not directly affect the specific risk of this disease.

Ongoing research and genetic studies could lead to better preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies in the future. For cat owners, it is important to be aware of the signs of heart problems and to seek veterinary advice immediately if health issues are suspected. Attentive observation and care can help support your cat’s well-being.

Outlook on current research

Research into the persistent right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. (PRAA) anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later. in cats is an active and growing field aimed at expanding the understanding of this rare vascular anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later.. Scientists are investigating the genetic, developmental biological, and physiological aspects that contribute to the development of PRAA. One of the main questions researchers are trying to answer is what genetic factors play a role in cats, whether there are breed predispositions, and how these findings can be applied to inheritance patterns.

Another area of research focuses on improving diagnostic methods. The use of advanced imaging techniques such as CT scans and MRI is being investigated to increase the accuracy of diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and better visualize the structure of the vascular anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later.. These technologies allow veterinarians to obtain detailed images of the heart and vascular structure, which can lead to more accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and targeted treatment options.

Therapeutically, surgical techniques are constantly being developed to improve the treatment of PRAA. Researchers are investigating new surgical approaches as well as minimally invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. techniques that can reduce the risk of complications and shorten the recovery time for affected cats. In addition, postoperativePostoperative refers to the time after a surgical operation. This phase includes recovery and the management of possible complications after the procedure. care protocols and long-term outcomes are being intensively studied to improve the quality of life of cats after surgery.

In basic research, the embryonic development of the cardiovascular system in cats is analyzed to better understand how and why a persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. forms. These studies are crucial to developing future preventive measures and potentially establishing genetic tests that could help identify affected cats early.

The research results are increasingly published in veterinary medical journals and presented at international conferences to disseminate the findings and promote collaboration between researchers worldwide. The exchange of knowledge and experience helps to improve treatment options for PRAA and increase the well-being of cats worldwide.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is a persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. (PRAA) in cats? A persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. is a congenitalCongenital means "present from birth" and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. vascular anomaly in which the right aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. develops and persists instead of the left aortic archThe aortic arch is the curved portion of the aorta (main artery) that leads away from the heart and branches into various large arteries that transport oxygen-rich blood to the body. It plays a central role in the circulatory system. during embryonic development. This can lead to narrowing of the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis)., which makes food intake difficult.
How does PRAA manifest itself in cats? Cats with PRAA often show symptoms such as Vomiting after eating, Growth disorders, Weight loss, and RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress. These symptoms result from compression of the esophagus between the heart and aorta.
How is PRAA diagnosed? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of PRAA is usually made by imaging techniques such as X-rays, ultrasound, or more advanced imaging techniques such as CT or MRI to visualize the structure of the aorta and its effects on the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis)..
What treatment options are available for PRAA? The primaryPrimary refers to the first or original cause of a disease or condition, as opposed to secondary causes or symptoms that develop from it. treatment for PRAA is surgery to correct the anomaly and relieve pressure on the esophagusThe esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the pharynx to the stomach. It transports food from the mouth to the stomach through rhythmic contractions (peristalsis).. The surgery should be performed by an experienced veterinarian. In some cases, supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures such as special diets are also necessary.
Is PRAA curable? With timely and successful surgical intervention, PRAA can often be treated effectively, leading to a significant improvement in the quality of life of the affected cat. Without treatment, however, the anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later. can lead to serious health problems.
Can all cat breeds be affected by PRAA? While all cat breeds can theoretically be affected, there is evidence that certain breeds may be more predisposed. However, the exact genetic predispositions are still under investigation.
How common is PRAA in cats? PRAA is a relatively rare anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later. in cats. The exact prevalence is not known, as many cases may go unrecognized or misdiagnosed.
What are the risk factors for PRAA? The biggest known risk factor is genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases.. Research is underway to identify specific genetic markers that could indicate an increased risk for this anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later..
Can PRAA be prevented? Since it is a congenitalCongenital means "present from birth" and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later., there are currently no known methods to completely prevent PRAA. However, breeding research could help minimize the risk in offspring in the future.
What is the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for cats after treatment for PRAA? The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. after successful surgical treatment is generally good. Many cats recover completely and lead a normal life. However, follow-up care is crucial to ensure that no complications arise and that the cat receives adequate nutrition.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. What is a persistent right aortic arch (PRAA) in cats?

A persistent right aortic arch is a congenital vascular anomaly in which the right aortic arch develops and persists instead of the left aortic arch during embryonic development. This can lead to narrowing of the esophagus, which makes food intake difficult.

2. How does PRAA manifest itself in cats?

Cats with PRAA often show symptoms such as Vomiting after eating, Growth disorders, Weight loss, and Respiratory distress. These symptoms result from compression of the esophagus between the heart and aorta.

3. How is PRAA diagnosed?

The diagnosis of PRAA is usually made by imaging techniques such as X-rays, ultrasound, or more advanced imaging techniques such as CT or MRI to visualize the structure of the aorta and its effects on the esophagus.

4. What treatment options are available for PRAA?

The primary treatment for PRAA is surgery to correct the anomaly and relieve pressure on the esophagus. The surgery should be performed by an experienced veterinarian. In some cases, supportive measures such as special diets are also necessary.

5. Is PRAA curable?

With timely and successful surgical intervention, PRAA can often be treated effectively, leading to a significant improvement in the quality of life of the affected cat. Without treatment, however, the anomaly can lead to serious health problems.

6. Can all cat breeds be affected by PRAA?

While all cat breeds can theoretically be affected, there is evidence that certain breeds may be more predisposed. However, the exact genetic predispositions are still under investigation.

7. How common is PRAA in cats?

PRAA is a relatively rare anomaly in cats. The exact prevalence is not known, as many cases may go unrecognized or misdiagnosed.

8. What are the risk factors for PRAA?

The biggest known risk factor is genetic predisposition. Research is underway to identify specific genetic markers that could indicate an increased risk for this anomaly.

9. Can PRAA be prevented?

Since it is a congenital anomaly, there are currently no known methods to completely prevent PRAA. However, breeding research could help minimize the risk in offspring in the future.

10. What is the prognosis for cats after treatment for PRAA?

The prognosis after successful surgical treatment is generally good. Many cats recover completely and lead a normal life. However, follow-up care is crucial to ensure that no complications arise and that the cat receives adequate nutrition.