Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common inherited heart disease in cats. Studies have shown that this disease is more likely to be found in Maine Coons, Ragdolls and other oriental breeds, such as Sphynx, Burmese and Persians.

HCM is usually diagnosed in middle-aged cats, but the exception to the rule are Ragdolls because they can develop this disease from an early age. In general, cats who suffer from HCM are asymptomatic, but you have to take your cat to the vet for a concrete diagnosis, as a thorough examination is needed to discover the disease.

In addition, the most common symptoms of HCM include vomiting, decreased appetite and breathing difficulties. Even though many cats are usually asymptomatic, there is no treatment that can stop the natural progression of this disease. To normalize the heart rate and reduce the risk of sudden death, your veterinarian will prescribe a pharmaceutical treatment for your cat.

Manx Syndrome

The Manx cat is a breed of domestic cat that has a natural mutation that shortens their tails. Some of them are known as being completely tailless. However, the Manx syndrome can be found in other breeds as well. Unfortunately, this disease affects not only their tail but the spine and other nerves as well. These complications can lead to spina bifida – which is a spine condition that can cause paralysis, urination, and defecation problems.

One of the most important things that you have to keep in mind when it comes to Manx syndrome is that the shorter the tail, the more the spine and spinal cord are affected. It has been proven that some Manx cats are more likely to develop severe arthritis in the long run.

According to animal experts, these problems can be prevented by avoiding breeding a tailless cat with another tailless cat. Being a genetically inherited disease, there is no effective treatment that can reduce the risk of developing this disease.