Irregular Pulse in cats
The term “irregular pulse” in cats describes a deviation from the normal heart rate and rhythm. This can manifest as irregular intervals between heartbeats or uneven strength of heartbeats.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
An irregular pulse in cats can be caused by a variety of factors. A cat’s heart normally operates at a regular frequency of between 120 and 140 beats per minute, depending on the cat’s age, health status, and activity.
Causes of an irregular pulse can be both cardiac and non-cardiac in nature. The most common cardiac causes include arrhythmias, which can be caused by structural heart problems or conditions such as cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy leads to a change in the heart muscle that can disrupt the normal electrical activity of the heart.
Non-cardiac causes include hormonal disorders such as hyperthyroidism, which can affect the metabolism and cardiovascular system. Electrolyte imbalances, caused by an imbalance of minerals in the blood, can also affect heart function. In addition, stress, anxiety, or pain can also lead to an irregular pulse.
Toxins or medications that affect heart function, as well as infections or inflammatory conditions affecting the heart or adjacent tissue, are also potential triggers for an irregular pulse. Finally, congenital heart defects or genetic predispositions can play a role.
Typical accompanying symptoms
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Shortness of breath: An irregular pulse can impair the heart’s ability to pump enough blood, which can lead to breathing problems.
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Weakness or lethargy: Reduced blood circulation can cause the cat to appear tired or weak.
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Loss of appetite: Cats with heart problems may show less interest in food.
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Cough: Although rare, some cats with heart problems may cough, especially if fluid enters the lungs.
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Fainting spells: Short-term loss of consciousness can be caused by insufficient blood flow to the brain due to an irregular pulse.
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Bluish mucous membranes: Insufficient oxygen supply can lead to a bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes.
When to visit the vet?
A veterinarian should be consulted as soon as an irregular pulse is suspected, especially if additional symptoms such as shortness of breath, fainting, or lethargy occur. These signs may indicate serious heart problems or other systemic diseases that require immediate medical evaluation.
An emergency visit to the veterinarian is required if the cat shows signs of severe shortness of breath, collapse, or bluish mucous membranes. These symptoms may indicate acute heart failure or another life-threatening condition.
Even if the symptoms appear mild, it is advisable not to ignore the cat’s condition, as heart problems can progress rapidly, and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the prognosis.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
Pet owners can try to check their cat’s pulse by gently placing two fingers on the inside of the thigh or on the cat’s chest to feel the heartbeat. The pulse should be regular and even. Any irregularity should be noted.
At the veterinarian, the diagnosis will usually begin with a thorough clinical examination. The veterinarian will listen to the heart with a stethoscope to detect irregularities in the rhythm. Further diagnostic tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical activity of the heart and can identify arrhythmias.
Additional tests such as X-rays or ultrasound examinations of the heart (echocardiography) may be necessary to detect structural problems or abnormalities in the heart muscle. Blood tests may also be performed to test for signs of infections, electrolyte imbalances, or hormonal disorders.
In some cases, long-term monitoring with a portable ECG device, a so-called Holter monitor, may be required to monitor heart rate and rhythm over a longer period.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
During the examination by the veterinarian, pet owners should make sure to keep their cat calm and stress-free, as stress can worsen the irregular pulse. Avoid excessive activity or situations that could upset the cat.
Adequate nutrition and hydration are important to support the cat’s overall health. Make sure the cat has access to fresh water and try to offer a balanced diet that meets the needs of the heart.
It is important to follow the veterinarian’s instructions carefully. If medications are prescribed, they should be administered strictly as directed. Changes in the cat’s behavior or symptoms should be reported to the veterinarian immediately to adjust the treatment if necessary.
In cases where the cause of the irregular pulse cannot be determined immediately, the veterinarian may recommend close monitoring and regular follow-up examinations to monitor the cat’s health and ensure that its condition does not worsen.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.