Presentation Description / Summary: Feline Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common heart disease in cats. This presentation will review HCM, its prevalence, risk factors, signs, and breed predispositions. We will take an in-depth look at the role of nutrition as part of effective multimodal management of HCM, examining specific nutrients which aid in improving the quality of life for cats with HCM. Effective treatment requires a multifaceted approach, of which therapeutic nutrition is an important component. We will take an in-depth look at foods formulated for cats with cardiovascular disease and the specific nutrients that may help manage hypertension, decrease fluid retention, maintain heart muscle function, and help slow the progression of concurrent disease processes.
Learner Outcomes: 1. Attendee will identify risk factors, signs, and cat breeds presdisposed to HCM. 2. Attendee will demonstrate understanding of key nutrients which aid in the management of feline HCM. 3. Attendee will understand the importance of these nutrients on improving the cat’s quality of life. 4. Attendee will communicate this understanding to the cat owner.
Learning Objectives:
Attendee will identify risk factors, signs, and cat breeds presdisposed to HCM.
Attendee will demonstrate understanding of key nutrients which aid in the management of feline HCM.
Attendee will understand the importance of these nutrients on improving the cat’s quality of life and will communicate this understanding to the cat owner.
