Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common form of heart disease in cats, causing the heart muscle to thicken and making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. While HCM is a serious condition that always requires veterinary care, nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting your cat’s heart, overall health, and quality of life. Here’s how to feed your cat for better heart health—plus specific food options and tips to make every meal count.
Understanding HCM in Cats
HCM often develops silently, with few early symptoms. As it progresses, cats may show signs like:
- Labored or rapid breathing
- Lethargy or weakness
- Decreased appetite or weight loss
- Fainting or collapse (in severe cases)
- Sudden hind leg paralysis (from blood clots)
While some cases are genetic, HCM can affect any breed or age. Medication and close veterinary monitoring are essential, but diet can provide valuable support—especially for fluid balance, blood pressure, and overall well-being.
Dietary Goals for Cats with HCM
- Support healthy heart function: Provide quality protein and essential nutrients without excess sodium or unhealthy fats.
- Maintain healthy muscle mass: Cats with HCM may lose weight or muscle, so adequate protein and calories are important.
- Control sodium (salt) intake: Too much sodium can increase blood pressure and worsen fluid retention. Some HCM cats may need moderately restricted sodium diets (always ask your vet first).
- Ensure proper hydration: Wet/canned foods are preferred, especially if your cat is on diuretics or eats less due to illness.
- Include key nutrients: Omega-3 fatty acids, taurine, potassium, and B-vitamins support heart and cellular health.
Best Cat Food Features for HCM
- High-quality animal protein: Look for foods with real meat or fish as the first ingredient—critical for maintaining muscle and heart strength.
- Moderate to low sodium: Some prescription diets offer reduced sodium. Mainstream foods vary, so check the guaranteed analysis and consult your vet.
- High moisture content: Wet food supports hydration and kidney health, which is especially important if heart medications are used.
- Added taurine and carnitine: Essential amino acids for heart muscle function. Most quality cat foods contain these, but it’s wise to confirm.
- Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oil or flaxseed): Help reduce inflammation and may support cardiovascular health.
- Minimal fillers and by-products: Avoid foods loaded with corn, wheat, soy, or artificial additives, which offer little benefit to cats with heart disease.
Top Cat Food Recommendations for Cats with HCM
1. Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Early Support (Wet & Dry, Veterinary Only)
- Formulated for early kidney and heart support, with controlled sodium, high-quality protein, added taurine, and antioxidants.
- Available in both wet and dry, but wet is usually preferred for hydration.
- Requires a vet prescription and ongoing monitoring.
2. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Cardiac (Wet & Dry, Veterinary Only)
- Specifically designed for cats with heart conditions, with restricted sodium, added taurine, and L-carnitine for heart muscle health.
- Palatable formulas encourage eating even when appetite is low.
- Available through your veterinarian.
3. Wellness CORE Grain-Free (Wet)
- High-protein, grain-free formula with real meat and added taurine.
- Moderate sodium content—always check the label and confirm with your vet.
- Rich in omega-3s from fish oil for added heart support.
4. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Grain-Free (Wet)
- Real meat as the first ingredient, plus added taurine and essential nutrients.
- High-moisture and moderate sodium for gentle heart support.
- No artificial flavors, by-products, or unnecessary fillers.
5. Weruva Cats in the Kitchen (Wet)
- Shredded meat recipes, high in moisture, moderate protein, and minimal fillers.
- Lower sodium content than many grocery store brands.
- Very palatable for picky or sick cats.
Practical Feeding Tips for Cats with HCM
- Feed small, frequent meals: Smaller meals are easier on the heart and encourage steady eating, especially if your cat’s appetite fluctuates.
- Warm wet food slightly: Gently warming food increases aroma and entices cats who may not want to eat.
- Monitor weight and appetite closely: Weight loss can worsen muscle wasting. Weigh your cat weekly and report changes to your vet.
- Always provide fresh water: Hydration is essential, especially if medications like diuretics are used.
- Check with your vet before supplementing: Don’t add potassium, taurine, or supplements without veterinary approval—imbalances can be risky for heart cats.
Foods to Avoid for Cats with HCM
- Very high-sodium foods (some commercial treats, human foods, certain broths)
- Low-quality brands with lots of by-products, salt, and artificial additives
- Dog food or homemade diets not specifically formulated for feline heart health
When to See the Vet
- If your cat refuses to eat for more than 24 hours
- Shows new or worsening breathing difficulty, lethargy, or fainting
- Sudden leg weakness, collapse, or pain (could signal a blood clot emergency)
HCM is a medical condition requiring professional management. Diet helps, but medications, regular exams, and sometimes ultrasounds or bloodwork are essential.
The Bottom Line
The best cat food for cats with HCM is high in animal protein, low to moderate in sodium, rich in taurine and omega-3s, and easy to eat. Wet foods are usually best, but always confirm your cat’s nutritional needs and medication interactions with your veterinarian. With attentive feeding, regular monitoring, and loving care, many cats with HCM can enjoy a comfortable, happy life.
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before changing your cat’s diet or adding supplements—especially with a heart condition like HCM.