Congestive Heart Failure CHF

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition that results from severe heart disease in cats.

Congestive heart failure is a confusing terminology because the word “failure” makes it sound like the heart is immediately dying or stopping.

This is not the case. Congestive heart failure essentially means that the heart can no longer compensate for the severe heart disease without medical intervention.

Medical intervention will also improve/resolve most clinical signs of congestive heart failure.

Signs of congestive heart failure include:
• increased respiratory rate and/or effort
• weight loss

How to Monitor

Sleep Respiratory Rate

♦ Count the number of times your pet’s chest goes up and down over 15 seconds. Multiply this number by 4 to obtain breaths per minute.
♦ A sleeping respiratory rate less than 40 breaths per minute is not consistent with congestive heart failure.
♦ A sleeping respiratory rate greater than 60 breaths per minute may indicate an emergency and your pet should be evaluated immediately.

Chest X-Rays

♦ Chest x-rays are taken to evaluate for the presence of pulmonary edema and to evaluate heart size.

Bloodwork

♦Many cardiac medications can adversely affect the kidneys. For this reason, it is important to monitor kidney function with blood tests as new medications are introduced or dosage changes are made.

Commonly Used Medications

Furosemide (Lasix): Furosemide is a diuretic used to treat heart failure, by removing fluid from the lungs. It commonly causes increased drinking and urination.
Pimobendan (Vetmedin): Pimobendan is an inodilator: a combination of positive inotrope (improves contraction of the heart) and vasodilator (dilates blood vessels). This results in more ecient contraction of the heart.
ACE Inhibitor (Benazepril or Enalapril): An ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme) inhibitor is a type of medication that prevents the production of Angiotensin II which promotes increased blood pressure and fluid retention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is congestive heart failure?

Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs or around the body.

What causes CHF in cats?

♦ Cats:The most common cause is heart disease, especially cardiomyopathy (thickening or abnormal structure of the heart muscle). Other causes can include heart valve disease, high blood pressure, or congenital heart defects.

What are the signs I should watch for?

Rapid or labored breathing
Open-mouth breathing (emergency sign in cats)
Lethargy or weakness
Decreased appetite
Hiding or reduced activity
Possible collapse in severe cases

Can CHF be cured?

No, CHF cannot be cured, but it can often be managed with medications and supportive care.

Will my pet need lifelong medication?

Yes, most cats with CHF require lifelong medication and regular monitoring.

How can I schedule an appointment?

Please call us at 720-510-7707 to book a consultation today.