MeWow! Learn How to Diagnose, Stage and Treat Feline Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathies (CM) represent primary diseases of the myocardium that are characterized by a variety of phenotypes that may or may not be progressive and thus may or may not lead to the development of clinical signs. Other comorbid conditions, such as systemic hypertension and hyperthyroidism, can mimic feline CM and/or contribute to progression if left unmanaged in cats with CM, and thus should always be ruled-out in cats with known or suspected CM (Stage A through D). Initial clinical signs of CM can be acute and life threatening. Clinical signs associated with feline CM include those associated with congestive heart failure (CHF), arterial thromboembolism (ATE). This session will emphasize practical recommendations for screening, diagnosis and staging and treatment of CM. Emphasis will be on hypertrophic and hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Key aspects of the ACVIM CM guidelines will be highlighted.