symptoms of heartbeat arrhythmia in cats

Pet Health Article

• Symptoms of Heartbeat Arrhythmia in Cats

A heartbeat arrhythmia in cats occurs when the heart experiences abnormal electrical activity. The disturbance in electrical activity causes an irregular heartbeat, or a heartbeat that is too fast or too slow. The causes of heartbeat arrhythmia can include: inherited defects within the heart, infections, injuries, ingestion of poisons or toxins, or other underlying diseases. Some cats live a healthy life with a mild heartbeat arrhythmia condition, while other cats are affected more severely.

Heartbeat arrhythmia can occur in cats of all ages, and in all types of breeds. Often a pet owner is unaware that their cat has a heartbeat arrhythmia, and many times these arrhythmias are caught during routine physical examinations.

Mild heart arrhythmia conditions often have no symptoms at all. When symptoms do appear, the owner may notice that the cat is not as active, pants more when exercising, or becomes tired easily. Severe heart arrhythmias can lead to coughing, fainting spells, abdominal bloat, trouble breathing, rapid breathing, constant fatigue, inability or desire to engage in any activities, and death. It is not unusual for these symptoms to suddenly appear and disappear just as rapidly; sometimes the symptoms appear and then do not reappear again for months.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, it is vitally important that you take your cat to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Heartbeat arrhythmias can often be managed through medications and lifestyle changes.