Nervous For My Cat's Repeat Ultrasound

[UnderneathTheStars]

Just an update for those of you following Mousse's story. I've been posting here since I adopted her from a breeder (she's a retired breeding persian) in terrible condition. I've had her for almost a year now and her health has improved drastically. But, when we went for a dental specialist consult the cardiologist we also saw diagnosed her with moderate-to-severe HCM (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) by ultrasound. It was a huge blow to us. It meant she couldn't have her bad teeth extracted. It also meant she might not have very long with us. She has been on atenolol, clopidogrel, and fortekor now for a bit over a month. She's like a kitten! I thought her health was good before but now she's super energetic and alert. I see a big difference. However, I'm trying not to be optimistic because I'm afraid to get crushed after our next visit. I know HCM is progressive and not cure-able. I know the increase energy and vitality is probably just because of the medication and not any improvement in her heart itself. Mousse is pretty asymptomatic in that she doesn't have fluid in the chest and doesn't have blood clots. This follow-up ultrasound will tell us whether the disease is progressing quickly or is remaining relatively stable. Can you all keep us in your thought and prayers for good news on Tuesday morning? Also, does anyone know of a cat that had some improvement with treatment or is that impossible and the only thing that can happen is it remains stable or progresses?

 

[FeebysOwner]

I can't help with your question about improvements/stabilization with treatment, but I most certainly will cross Feeby's paws for Mousse, and that the ultrasound reflects good news for the both of you!!!

 

[babiesmom5]

Thanks for the update on Mousse. That's great! The increased alertness and energy level is due to the effects of the medications which creates less stress and strain on the heart.

What this means is that Mousse's heart is working better with less effort...and that is sure to slow down the progression, keep her asymptomatic and stable for much longer.

So yes, that indicates an improvement in heart function.

I will keep all of you in my prayers for Tuesday.