Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) caused by taurine deficiency in cats was once a common diagnosis for feline heart disease. Today, DCM accounts for less than 10% of feline heart disease. Good nutrition plays many roles in heart health.

Cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) often appear healthy. If clinical signs do occur, then nutritional modifications can be an important part of patient care.

View a short video about the ACVIM classification of heart disease.

Kittens should be fed to achieve normal growth and a lean, healthy body condition.

Neutering may increase a pet’s risk for becoming overweight or obese.

Maintaining a lean, healthy body condition in kittens can help prevent obesity and related health conditions in later years.

A novel nutritional intervention can help improve heart function and slow disease progression in dogs with early stage MMVD.

Cats with heart disease often appear healthy until their heart is failing. Once diagnosed with heart failure, nutritional modifications can help support heart health.

Nutrition can play an important role in helping to manage the clinical signs that occur when the heart no longer adequately compensates for changes associated with heart disease.