Unclassified Cardiomyopathy (UCM) in Cats: A Veterinary Guide to Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment. Explained by your veterinarian, Susanne Arndt. As a veterinarian, I unfortunately see many cats with heart disease in my practice. While many owners have heard of HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy), Unclassified Cardiomyopathy (UCM) in cats is often a mystery.
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Rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs, leading to significant functional limitations. In cats, this condition was long considered rare and often overlooked. Only in recent decades has attention been drawn to this problem in feline patients, resulting in an increasing number of case reports and smaller studies. Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) is a surgical procedure originally developed by veterinary surgeon Slocum that has achieved revolutionary results in the treatment of cruciate ligament ruptures in dogs.
The term roundworms in cats primarily covers two species: Toxocara cati and Toxascaris leonina. In practice, Toxocara cati dominates. Infection typically occurs via the ingestion of infectious eggs from the environment, via prey (mice, birds) or - in kittens - via the mother's milk. Once ingested, the larvae continue to develop in the intestine, partially migrate through the body and finally mature into adult, spaghetti-like worms in the small intestine. These produce masses of eggs, which are excreted in the faeces and contaminate the environment. This completes the cycle of infection.
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As a practising vet, I see hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats very frequently - it is the most common heart disease in cats. This is a concentric thickening of the left ventricular wall without any other disease that could explain this condition. In contrast to secondary heart changes (e.g. hyperthyroidism or acromegaly), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats is characterised by structurally altered heart muscle cells that are arranged in disorder (myocardial „disarray“) and do not behave normally in functional terms. This leads to a stiffer ventricle, restricted filling in diastole and often to an enlargement of the left atrium.
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As a veterinarian, I am frequently confronted with complex chest diseases where a thorough diagnosis and prompt treatment determine the prognosis. A typical example is a paraesophageal abscess – a collection of pus in the tissue adjacent to the esophagus. A paraesophageal abscess usually develops as a result of a small perforation of the esophagus, often caused by swallowed foreign bodies (e.g., bones, sticks, fishhooks) or by secondary infections in the mediastinum. Even wood splinters that migrate easily from the throat or tongue can travel caudally along tissue fascia and cause a paraesophageal abscess near the esophagus. We see the interplay of a foreign body, local inflammation, bacterial colonization, and an encapsulated pus-filled cavity relatively frequently in dogs, whereas it is less common in cats.
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As a veterinarian, I often see that owners only realize their cat's vision is poor quite late. Cats can compensate for vision problems for a long time – thanks to their excellent sense of smell, touch, and hearing. But the earlier intervention occurs, the better the prognosis and quality of life. This comprehensive guide explains clearly how to recognize that your cat has poor vision, what the typical causes are, what the examination at the veterinarian's office entails, what therapies are available, and how to make everyday life safe for your cat. I also provide links to reputable international specialist sources so you can read more in-depth information.
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As a veterinarian, I am confronted daily with questions about the development of tumors in dogs and cats. The term tumor initially simply means "swelling"; however, in a medical context, we usually speak of a neoplasm, that is, newly formed tissue that escapes normal control. In order to make informed decisions—from early detection to treatment—it is crucial to understand how tumors develop biologically and what influencing factors play a role in our pets.
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The Norwegian Forest Cat is considered a robust, original cat breed originating from the forests of Scandinavia. Its dense fur, strong musculature, and natural resilience make it a popular family cat. However, even this natural breed has typical hereditary diseases and health risks that every cat owner should be aware of.
In this article, I, as a veterinarian, explain the most common diseases of the Norwegian Forest Cat, discuss diagnosis, treatment and prognosis, and show how you can keep your cat healthy.
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Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a serious heart disease that occurs primarily in dogs, and less frequently in cats. This progressive disease leads to an enlargement and weakening of the heart muscle – particularly the left ventricle – thus impairing the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently.
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Dietary management of chronic kidney disease in cats is a crucial component in improving the quality of life and extending the lifespan of affected animals. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is among the most common causes of death in middle-aged and older cats. Targeted nutritional therapy supports kidney function, reduces complications, and sustainably slows the progression of the disease. This article provides dedicated pet owners and students with comprehensive information on how to optimally manage the dietary treatment of chronic kidney disease in cats – from causes and symptoms to diagnosis and therapy, as well as prevention, follow-up care, and current research findings.
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Urinary stones in Siamese cats pose a serious health challenge that both dedicated pet owners and aspiring veterinarians should understand. This condition can significantly affect the Siamese cat's urinary tract and requires targeted diagnostics and individually tailored treatment approaches. Below you will find everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for urinary stones in Siamese cats, as well as current research findings.
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Pancreatitis Coon – Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Research Pancreatitis Coon is a serious disease that occurs more frequently in the Maine Coon cat breed. For dedicated pet owners and veterinary students, it is essential to understand the specific characteristics of this disease in this breed. In this comprehensive article, you will learn everything essential about the definition, the
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Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by a disruption in glucose metabolism. In British Shorthairs, diabetes typically manifests as insulin resistance or insulin deficiency. Insulin is the key hormone for regulating blood sugar levels. If it is absent or malfunctioning, blood sugar levels rise, leading to various complications.
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Osteoarthritis in Cats – Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Research Osteoarthritis is a common joint disease that is becoming increasingly important in cats. While it primarily affects older cats, it can occur at various stages of life and due to different causes. For pet owners and veterinary students, it is crucial to recognize the symptoms early in order to initiate targeted treatment.
The health of our Siamese cats is of utmost importance to us. Especially with specific diseases like otitis in Siamese cats, sound knowledge is essential to recognize symptoms early and take targeted action. In this article, dedicated pet owners and students will learn everything they need to know about the causes, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options for otitis in Siamese cats. This will enable you to ensure the long-term well-being of your feline companions.
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