Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Non-taurine responsive dilated cardiomyopathy in 2 cats

“…In the cases here, congestive signs, gallop rhythm with various degrees of systolic murmur were remarkable as well. Although ECGs are nonspecific in cats with DCM, sinus tachycardia, atrial or ventricular premature beats, ventricular tachyarrhythmias and atrial fibrillation could be present (5,6,7,8,13). In the first case with ECG, the findings were consistent with the reports previously described.…”

“…Mitral insufficiency in echocardiography is the result of this condition. Diagnosis can be made on echocardiography when an enlargement of the left ventricle diameter (> 11 mm in systole and or > 16 mm in diastole) (6). The data we obtained are compatible with this information.…”

“…Since the factors that cause myocardial dysfunction are often undetectable, non-taurine responsive feline DCM is referred to as idiopathic (13). DCM phenotype can also be possible in the end stage valvular diseases (6). In cases presented here, there is no evidence of pre-existing heart murmur or echocardiographic evidence the valvular pathology to suggest the valvular insufficiency resulting in DCM phenotype or systolic dysfunction.…”

“…The cat was initiated the following medications: . With the addition of taurine to commercial foods, the incidence of the disease decreased in cats (6,15). Nevertheless cats with DCM are encountered although they are fed with a balanced diet.…”

“…It is difficult to distinguish between these two situations. Greet et al 12 Gallop sounds and systolic murmur can also accompany to DCM phenotype in cats (6,15).…”