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In this episode, host Alyssa Watson, DVM, welcomes Andrea C. Eriksson De Rezende, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology), to discuss her recent Clinician’s Brief article, “Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in a Cat.” Dr. Eriksson De Rezende covers a variety of presentations, the full list of diagnostics including NT-proBNP, the virtues of sedation, and therapies ranging from the mainstays to that new sirolimus drug. Following this case-based exercise, they go well beyond the basics when it comes to HCM and thromboembolic disease in cats.
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Key Takeaways
While the classical presentation is acute-onset painful, cold, and non-motile hind limbs, some cats with thromboembolic disease can present with behavior changes or temporary forelimb lameness; advise clients to take subtle or seemingly unrelated symptoms seriously.
In cats with HCM, slow-moving blood can lead to thrombus formation in the left atrium and auricle, which looks like “smoke” on an echo.
Chest radiographs and NT-proBNP levels can be useful screening tools in cats with murmurs or rhythm abnormalities.
“It’s better to sedate than resuscitate;" Pre-visit gabapentin, or even buprenorphine, and injectable butorphanol can prevent patient stress from becoming a life-threatening problem.
Clopidogrel and Factor Xa-inhibitors are the mainstay of treatment to prevent further thrombus formation, with drugs like enalapril, atenolol, pimobendan, and sirolimus only being used in certain situations.
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The Team:
Alyssa Watson, DVM - Host
Alexis Ussery - Producer & Multimedia Specialist