Concerned about Obie

[MedusaIsHavingaBadHairday]

Both parents are certified free HCM (hypotrophic cardiomyopathy ) and he is very lively. However whenever he has been running around he gets very out of breath :( As in panting and heart going very fast. His sister does not do this and I am a bit worried.

We got a new toy today ('flying frenzy' and OMG they LOVE IT) and had a mad 15 mins chasing it.. pouncing jumping etc. DS1 suddenly stopped and said ' Mum listen to him he sounds awful' and he did.

I will get him checked out of course, however I wonder if if anyone knows if this sounds like a heart problem..and if so what can be done? He's only 5 months old.

Are the kits checked for HCM?

It could be just that he's so lively and doesn't know when to stop.

My (imperfect) understanding is that breeding cats are tested for a known gene defect but that some cats in the breed get HCM despite negative results and it's suspected there are other, as yet unknown, gene defects which may contribute. See here.

Poor lad. Is he to see the vet soon? And how good are your relations with the breeder? (I'm wondering about the advisability of letting them know that there might be an issue - with regard to future kittens from that pair etc.)

He's not due to see the vet for anything, so I shall probably just keep an eye for a week or so..log his panting /when/how often etc so I can give a clear picture to the vet and then take him.

If he does have a heart problem I will certainly let the breeders know..it's not their 'fault' as their cats are clear as far as testing goes, but I'm sure they would want to know as it would probably have implications for who they mate together regardless.

He is flat out and happy enough now, but definitely needs checking :/

I agree. I'm sorry if I sounded clinical there - this must be very difficult for you for so many reasons, Medusa.

Can you video it? Because he won't do it in the vets.

Ours is a breed prone to that & he tires during play but the vet says his heart is normal.

That's a really good idea Fluffy... I'll try and catch him on my phone when he has been playing. The difference between him and Ophie is what makes me concerned, as she doesn't pant or cough no matter how long she has been bouncing around!