Increased heart rate (tachycardia) in cats
When to visit the vet?
Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours
RED when there are signs of poor perfusion (pale mucous membranes, weak pulse, hypothermia), shortness of breath, collapse/syncope, unmeasurable rhythm, or suspected tachyarrhythmia with hemodynamic instability.
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Definition
TachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems. in cats refers to an increased heart rate that is above the normal range for the cat’s age group and health status. Normally, the heart of a healthy cat at rest beats approximately 140 to 220 times per minute. In cases of tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems., this frequency is significantly increased.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
- Acute Hemolytic Transfusion Reaction (Blood Transfusion Reactions)
- Acute Kidney Injury, AKI (Acute Renal Failure)
- Arteriovenous Fistula (Direct Connection between an Artery and a Vein)
- Asphyxia (Near-Drowning)
- Aspiration Pneumonia (Pneumonia after Inhaling Food or Vomit)
- Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (Anemia Related to the Immune System)
- Cholecystitis and Cholangitis (Gallbladder and Bile Duct Inflammation)
- Colibacillosis (Bacterial Intestinal Infection with Escherichia Coli)
- Cytauxzoonosis (Parasitic Skin Disease Caused by Cytauxzoon Species)
- Increased Heart Rate Due to Preterm Labor
- Hemothorax (Blood in Chest Cavity)
- Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
- Hyperviscosity Syndrome (Blood Thickening Due to Blood Proteins)
- Hypoxia (Low Blood Oxygen Level)
- Intoxication / poisoning due to the insecticides organophosphate and carbamate (poisoning from toxins used to control insects)
- Cardiogenic Shock (Shock Due to Heart Failure)
- L-Carnitine Deficiency
- Malignant hyperthermia (increased body temperature during anesthesia)
- Hemangiosarcoma of the Spleen and/or Liver (Liver and Spleen Cancer Caused by Hemangiosarcoma)
- Methemoglobinemia (Oxygen Deficiency Due to the Formation and Accumulation of Methemoglobin)
- Splenic Torsion (Twisted Spleen)
- Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
- Myocardial Rupture, Heart Rupture (Tear in the Heart, Heart Muscle Tear)
- Plague, Yersinia Pestis Infection (Bacterial Infection Caused by Yersinia Species)
- Pheochromocytoma (Adrenal Gland Cancer)
- Fungal Pneumonia, Mycotic Pneumonia (Pneumonia Due to Fungal Infection)
- Pneumothorax (accumulation of air between the pleura and pleura, in the pleural space)
- Polycythemia (Overproduction of Red Blood Cells in the Bone Marrow)
- Salmonellosis (Bacterial Intestinal Infection Caused by Salmonella Species)
- Sepsis, Septicemia, and Bacteremia (Bacterial Infection of the Blood, Blood Poisoning)
- Traumatic Myocarditis (Inflammation of the heart muscle after blunt cardiac trauma)
- Tremorgenic Mycotoxins (Fungal Toxin Poisoning)
- Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome (Episodic Palpitations)
- Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, ARDS (Shock Lung)
- Renal anemia (red blood cell deficiency due to chronic kidney disease)
- Noncardiogenic Pulmonary Edema (Fluid Accumulation in the Lungs)
- Feline Infectious Anemia, Haemobartonellosis, Hemoplasmosis (Bacterial Blood Infection Caused by Mycoplasma Species)
- Postpartum metritis of the uterus (Bacterial infection of the uterus after birth)
- Ventricular Septal Defect (Defect in the Dividing Wall between the Right and Left Ventricles of the Heart)
- Suppurative Hepatitis and Liver Abscesses
- Endomyocarditis (Inflammation of the Inner Lining of the Heart)
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (Enlarged Heart Chambers)
- Mitral valve dysplasia Mitral valve endocardiosis (malformation of the heart valve between the left atrium and left ventricle)
- Pericardial effusion (fluid accumulation in the pericardium)
- Patent Ductus Arteriosus, PDA (Vascular Anomaly of the Heart)
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (Heart Disease Due to Thickening of the Heart Muscle)
- Myocarditis (Inflammation of the Heart Muscle)
- Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency, PK (Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency)
- Septic Shock (Shock Due to Bacterial Infection)
- Left heart failure (weakness of the left ventricle)
- Lung Lobe Torsion (Twisting of a Lung Lobe)
- Amitraz Toxicosis (Poisoning from Tick Collar)
- Ethanol Poisoning (Alcohol Poisoning)
- Pancytopenia (Global Disorder of Blood Formation)
- Thrombocytopenia (Low platelet count)
Basics and possible causes
An increased heart rate in cats can be triggered by a variety of factors. Common causes include stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. and excitement, which lead to an activation of the sympathetic nervous systemThe sympathetic nervous system is part of the autonomic nervous system, which regulates unconscious bodily functions. It triggers the "fight-or-flight" response and affects heart rate, blood pressure, and energy supply in dogs and cats.. This is a normal reaction that helps the body prepare for a “fight-or-flight” situation.
Another common reason for an increased heart rate is physical activity. When cats play or hunt, their heart rate increases to meet the increased oxygen and energy demands of their muscles. This form of tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems. is usually temporary and no cause for concern.
Medical causes can also play a role. One of the most common is hyperthyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland is overactive and can lead to a variety of symptoms, including tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems.. Other possible medical causes include heart disease, infections, anemia, or Fever.
Some medications or toxins can also cause an increased heart rate. Certain medications used in cats to treat other conditions can triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems. as a side effectA side effect is an unwanted reaction to a medication or treatment. In animals, side effects can range from mild and temporary to severe and potentially life-threatening.. Similarly, toxins ingested by the cat can affect the heart rate.
Typical accompanying symptoms
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Shortness of breath: A cat with an increased heart rate may breathe faster or harder to meet the increased oxygen demand.
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Lethargy: Despite the increased heart rate, the cat may appear tired or apathetic as the body conserves energy.
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Loss of appetite: With health problems causing tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems., the cat may lose interest in food.
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Weight loss: Due to loss of appetite or an underlying disease, the cat may lose weight.
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Vomiting or DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.: These symptoms can occur if the tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems. is caused by toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances or certain diseases.
When to see a vet?
A vet visit is essential if the cat shows a persistently increased heart rate that cannot be explained by obvious stressors or physical activity. If the tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems. is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, Lethargy, or loss of appetite, a veterinarian should be consulted as soon as possible.
It is particularly alarming if the cat shows signs of weakness or collapse in addition to heart symptoms. This could indicate a serious heart or lung condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Even if the cause of the tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems. is unclear, a veterinarian should be consulted to conduct a thorough examination and 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.. Early detection and treatment can reduce the risk of complications.
Symptom recognition for the pet owner and veterinary diagnostic procedure
For pet owners, it is important to pay close attention to changes in the cat’s behavior and physical condition. An increased heart rate can be difficult to detect, but symptoms such as rapid breathing or unusual Lethargy can provide clues.
The veterinarian will take a thorough 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. and perform a physical examination. This includes listening to the heart with a stethoscopeA stethoscope is a medical instrument used for auscultation, or listening to body sounds, such as heartbeats and lung sounds. It is a fundamental tool in medical diagnostics. to assess heart rate and any heart murmurs.
Additional diagnostic tests may be necessary to determine the cause of the tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems.. These include blood tests to check thyroid hormones and other important parameters, an ECG to assess heart function, and, if necessary, X-rays or an ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. of the heart.
In some cases, a referral to a cardiologist may be necessary to perform specialized examinations and make an 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..
What the pet owner can do and professional therapy options
As a pet owner, you can take some measures to calm the situation while waiting for the veterinary examination. Ensure the cat remains in a calm and stress-free environment to minimize excitement and stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being..
Observe the cat’s breathing and general condition closely. If breathing becomes very rapid or difficult, place the cat in a comfortable position and ensure fresh air. Avoid moving the cat if it is very weak or has collapsed.
Do not feed the cat if it shows signs of Nausea or Vomiting, as this could worsen the situation. Instead, ensure fresh water is available to prevent dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse..
Avoid self-medication or administering medication without veterinary instructions, as this could worsen symptoms or cause dangerous interactions.
Outlook on current research
Research into increased heart rate in cats, also known as tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems., is a continuously evolving field that encompasses various aspects, from the physiologyPhysiology is the science of the normal functions and mechanisms in a living organism. It includes the study of how organs and systems work at the molecular, cellular, and organismal level. of the feline heart to the factors that can influence heart rate. Scientists are currently investigating the molecular mechanisms that regulate heart rate, including the role of ion channels and neurotransmitters. This research aims to better understand how physiological and pathologicalPathological refers to anything related to diseases or their processes. Pathological changes are those that deviate from the normal structure or function and indicate a disease. conditions affect heart rate, in order to develop more targeted therapeutic approaches.
Another important aspect of current research focuses on the effects of stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. on heart rate in cats. StressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. can lead to an increased heart rate in cats, and researchers are trying to unravel the underlying mechanisms and the long-term effects of stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. on heart health. Studies have shown that reducing stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. factors in a cat’s environment can contribute to normalizing heart rate, leading to improved overall well-being.
The genetic component of tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems. in cats is also being extensively studied. There is evidence that certain breeds have a 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. to heart problems, which can manifest as an increased heart rate. Identifying specific genetic markers could enable 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 intervention in the future.
In addition to genetic and physiological studies, there are also research efforts focused on the development and improvement of diagnostic tools. Advances in imaging diagnostics and wearable monitoring devices could help veterinarians monitor cats’ heart rates more accurately and detect changes early. These technologies could prove extremely useful in evaluating treatment effectiveness and improving long-term prognoses.
Research into nutrition and its influence on heart health and heart rate in cats is another growing area. Scientists are investigating how various nutrients, particularly omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, can support heart function. There is evidence that a balanced diet rich in heart-healthy nutrients can help regulate heart rate and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
An exciting field of research deals with the possibilities of personalized medicine for cats with tachycardiaTachycardia refers to an unusually fast heartbeat with a resting heart rate of over 100 beats per minute. It can indicate physical exertion, stress, illness, or heart problems.. By integrating genetic, environmental, and clinical data, scientists hope to develop tailored treatment plans that are adapted to the individual needs of each cat. These personalized approaches could significantly improve treatment effectiveness and enhance the well-being of affected cats.
The role of environmental factors such as temperature and humidity on cats’ heart rates is also being investigated. These factors can be particularly important for cats with existing heart problems, as extreme conditions can place additional strain on the heart. The research aims to develop recommendations for optimal care of cats in different climates.
Another research direction investigates the influence of social interaction and behavior on cats’ heart rates. There is evidence that positive interactions with humans or other animals can contribute to lowering heart rate, while isolation or negative experiences can lead to an increase. These findings could help improve the well-being of cats, especially in shelters or for older cats who may have less social interaction.
Finally, alternative and complementary therapies for regulating heart rate in cats are gaining attention. Researchers are investigating the effectiveness of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other non-conventional approaches to support heart function. These therapies could be used as a supplement to traditional medical treatments to ensure more holistic care.