Cats and Heart Murmurs

Cat heart murmurs are sometimes nothing more than an incidental occurrence with no medical significance. They’re the result of uneven blood flow through the heart and are signaled by a specific sound that veterinarians listen for in the rhythm of the cat's heart. Tests such as ultrasound are used to diagnose a murmur, but any irregularities in a cat’s heart are often an indication of this type of unique condition. The severity and the type of murmur will vary based upon a variety of symptoms.

There are two types of murmurs which are the most common; a physiological murmur as the result of an illness in the cat through anemia or fever, and a pathological murmur found among the irregularities in the valves or chambers of the heart. Doctors grade the severity of murmurs on a six point scale, with one being mildest and six being very severe. These grades don’t speak to the cat's health, but are merely a system for analyzing how the murmur sounds. A grade six murmur does not mean the cat’s life is being threatened, nor does a grade one mean that the cat is entirely healthy.

The most visible signs of a possible heart murmur in your cat are shown through the way they’re behaving. Look for signs in your cat that lead to lethargy or a general weakness in its mannerisms. A change in the color of the mouth or skin is also an early hint of a murmur and a trip to the veterinarian may be in order.

Though they may seem extreme, heart murmurs do not usually need treatment. But keep an eye on your cat’s behavior and bring your pet in for examinations every three to six months to watch for any medical signs or other indicators that the murmur is worsening. If the cat doesn’t show any discomfort, then it's likely the murmur is nothing more than a harmless noise that will go away eventually.

Like any medical condition, it is very important to report any changes in your cat's behavior so a veterinarian can run vital tests to assess if your cat has a murmur. Early detection is your best weapon against heart disease in your cat and staying vigilant will keep your furry friend healthy and happy for a long life to come.