How common is HCM in Sphynx?
Sphynx Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) We identified a DNA mutation in about 60% of affected Sphynx Cats. This mutation is also found occasionally in healthy adult Sphynx cats who do not have the disease. This referred to as “incomplete penetrance”.
Can kittens have HCM?
HCM can affect cats at any age. It has been seen in kittens only a few months of age and in cats over the age of 10.
How can you tell if your cat has HCM?
HCM is diagnosed by echocardiography, a technology that uses sound waves to create an image of the heart. In cats with HCM, these images reveal the thickened walls and constricted volume of the left ventricle of the heart.
What is HCM in Sphynx?
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is one of the most commonly encountered heart disease in cats. This disease is characterized by an abnormal thickening (hypertrophy) of one or several areas of the walls of the heart, usually of the left ventricle. This disease is usually diagnosed in middle-aged cats.
How Long Can cats live with HCM?
It is not unusual for patients to become symptomatic without any suspicion of previous heart disease. Once in congestive heart failure, most cats with HCM have a life expectancy of 6 and 18 months.
Is there a DNA test for HCM in Sphynx cats?
The Sphynx do not have a DNA test for the HCM gene. Each breed has its own DNA test. Even if there is a day where there is a Sphynx DNA test, cats will still need to be scanned regularly as there are multiple HCM genes. My Sphynx cat has HCM but both parents are scanned “normal”.
Can a Sphynx cat have a heart murmur?
It appears the Sphynx breed might have a higher than normal percentage of cats affected by hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). HCM is a thickening of the left ventricle wall of the heart. Many cats that have heart conditions show no symptoms (ie heart murmur) when checked by a non-specialist vet, or by your regular vet.
How can I tell if my cat has HCM?
HCM is a thickening of the heart’ s left ventricle wall. Many cats that have heart conditions show no outward symptoms (ie heart murmur) when checked by a non-specialist vet. Some breeders are proactive and scan their breeding cats regularly at board certified cardiologists to ensure they are breeding healthy cats.
Are there any known cures for Sphynx HCM?
Although Sphynx HCM has no known cure, a specialized care plan can help manage clinical signs of the condition in your cat. Treatment goals include controlling the heart rate, alleviating lung congestion (congestive heart failure), and preventing the formation of blood clots.