Hearing that your Sphynx cat has a medical issue can be devastating, especially a diagnosis like Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). This is one of the most common heart diseases in cats, and it can quietly develop over time. Breeds commonly diagnosed with HCM include Sphynx, Maine Coons, and Ragdolls.
While this is a tough diagnosis to consider, the good news is that a groundbreaking new study is giving vets and pet owners new hope, called the HALT HCM Study. This nationwide clinical study is working to develop a treatment that could change the lives of cats living with HCM.
Below, we'll discuss what HCM is and give you a better idea of what the new HALT HCM Study is.
What Is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)?
HCM is a heart condition in which the walls of the heart muscle thicken, making it difficult for it to pump blood effectively. Over time, you may see symptoms like:
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A loss of appetite
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Shortness of breath or rapid breathing
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Weakness or even being lethargic
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Fainting or collapsing in more serious cases
Typically, HCM progresses slowly, so early detection and close monitoring are imperative. A veterinary cardiologist usually diagnoses HCM by using an echocardiogram, an ultrasound of the heart.
Unfortunately, there's currently no cure for HCM; however, management and supportive care can keep your cat comfortable and improve the quality of their life.
What Is The HALT HCM Study?
The HALT HCM Study is an innovative research program enrolling up to 300 cats across the U.S. who have been diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy by a veterinarian or veterinary cardiologist.
This study’s mission is to explore a potential new treatment that could halt or slow the progression of HCM, offering hope not only to participating cats but also to countless others in the future.
Eligible cats will receive:
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Advanced veterinary care during the study
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Ongoing monitoring to keep track of their heart health and progress
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A chance to help advance research that could benefit other cats that have HCM
Could Your Cat Be Eligible?
If your cat has received the HCM diagnosis, they may qualify to participate in the study. All breeds of cats, ages, and sizes are being considered. They just need an official diagnosis from a veterinarian or veterinary cardiologist. Talk to your vet to learn more or to find out if your cat qualifies for the study.
Recommendations That Could Help Your Sphynx
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Food recommendations or homemade food - Studies have shown that a fresh, protein-rich diet can improve outcomes for cats with heart disease.
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Ubiquinol for Pets - Ubiquinol is the number one supplement recommended by cardiologists for heart disease support.
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Feline Complete™- Today's foods have fewer minerals and vitamins than ever before due to depleted topsoil. A multi-vitamin is essential to ensure the heart is getting the nutrients it needs. The vitamin should be made from whole food ingredients. Be aware that many pet multi-vitamins on the market are synthetic. Feline Complete has a proprietary blend of pure, whole-food ingredients, so you know that your cat is going to get the highest quality vitamins.
Final Thoughts
By joining the HALT HCM Study, your cat will not only receive advanced medical care, but they could also be furthering the research of HCM and potentially help other cats who are suffering from this disease. Together, you could HALT HCM!
With Love,
April Arguin A.S., C.P.N., M.P.H.
(aka) PetCoach-April
