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.
Encouraging picky cats to eat can be frustrating for veterinary health care providers and pet owners alike. Managing medical conditions and stress and implementing strategies to improve food intake can help finicky felines meet their energy and nutrient needs. These strategies apply to hospitalized cats and cats in a home environment.
Cats with heart disease often appear healthy until their heart is failing. Once diagnosed with heart failure, nutritional modifications can help support heart health.