Heart disease in cats is more common than many owners realize, especially as cats age. While a diagnosis like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), congestive heart failure, or other cardiac conditions can be overwhelming, nutrition plays a critical supporting role alongside veterinary care. The right diet can help manage symptoms, support the heart muscle, and improve your cat’s quality (and length) of life. Here’s how to feed your cat for a healthier, happier heart.
Understanding Heart Disease in Cats
Heart disease in cats often develops gradually, sometimes with few early symptoms. The most common forms include:
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): Thickening of the heart muscle, reducing the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently.
- Congestive Heart Failure: The heart can’t pump blood properly, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs or abdomen.
- Arrhythmias or valve disease: Less common, but can affect cats of any age.
Signs may include labored or rapid breathing, lethargy, poor appetite, weight loss, coughing, fainting, or sudden weakness. If you notice any of these, contact your vet immediately—heart disease requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
How Diet Supports Heart Health in Cats
- Maintains muscle mass: Cats with heart disease can lose weight and muscle, so quality protein is vital.
- Controls sodium (salt) intake: Too much sodium can raise blood pressure and cause fluid retention, worsening heart disease. Some cats benefit from a moderately sodium-restricted diet (always check with your vet).
- Supports hydration: Wet/canned foods help maintain hydration, which is especially important if your cat is on diuretics or eating less due to illness.
- Provides key nutrients: Taurine, L-carnitine, B-vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids support heart muscle and overall cellular health.
- Avoids unhealthy fillers: Low-quality foods full of corn, wheat, by-products, or artificial additives offer little benefit for cats with cardiac issues.
Best Features to Look for in Cat Food for Heart Disease
- High-quality animal protein: Look for real meat or fish as the first ingredient, with minimal by-products.
- Low to moderate sodium: Prescription diets offer controlled sodium, but some commercial foods are naturally lower—always check with your vet.
- High moisture content: Wet food supports hydration, softens food for easy eating, and is usually preferred over dry food.
- Added taurine and carnitine: Most modern cat foods include these critical amino acids for heart muscle function.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: From fish oil or flaxseed, to help reduce inflammation and support heart and kidney health.
- Balanced minerals: The right levels of potassium and magnesium are important for cats with heart issues, especially if they’re on medications.
Top Cat Food Recommendations for Heart Disease
1. Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d or h/d (Wet & Dry, Veterinary Only)
- Formulated for cats with kidney and/or heart disease—controlled sodium, added taurine, high-quality protein, and antioxidants.
- Available by prescription; wet is preferred for most cats with cardiac issues.
- Always use under veterinary supervision.
2. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Cardiac (Wet & Dry, Veterinary Only)
- Specifically made for heart conditions; restricted sodium, added taurine and L-carnitine for heart support.
- Palatable and easy to eat—encourages appetite in sick or older cats.
- Veterinary-only; follow your vet’s recommendations.
3. Wellness CORE Grain-Free (Wet)
- High animal protein and moisture; includes taurine and omega-3s.
- Moderate sodium (check with your vet if strict restriction is needed).
- Grain-free and made with quality meats, no artificial flavors or by-products.
4. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Grain-Free (Wet)
- Real meat as the first ingredient; high in protein and moisture.
- Added taurine, essential fatty acids, and moderate sodium.
- No by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives.
5. Weruva Cats in the Kitchen (Wet)
- Shredded meat, high moisture, moderate protein, and minimal fillers.
- Lower sodium than most supermarket brands (always double check labels).
- Highly palatable—great for cats with low appetite.
Practical Feeding Tips for Cats with Heart Disease
- Feed small, frequent meals: Smaller portions encourage eating and help manage fluctuations in appetite.
- Warm food gently: Increases aroma and makes it easier for sick cats to eat.
- Weigh your cat weekly: Report any weight loss, changes in appetite, or behavior to your vet immediately.
- Offer plenty of fresh water: Hydration is crucial, especially with heart medications.
- Avoid treats and table scraps: Many contain excess sodium or unhealthy ingredients for cardiac cats.
- Ask your vet before supplementing: Never add potassium, taurine, or supplements unless directed by your vet—imbalances can be dangerous.
Foods and Ingredients to Avoid
- High-sodium foods (some commercial treats, deli meats, most human foods, salty broths)
- Poor quality brands with by-products, fillers, and chemical additives
- Dog food or home-cooked diets not specifically formulated for cats with heart disease
When to See the Vet
- If your cat refuses food for more than 24 hours
- Shows trouble breathing, collapses, or appears weak
- Sudden lameness or pain in back legs (could be a blood clot emergency)
Heart disease always requires regular veterinary care and sometimes adjustments in medication or diet as the disease progresses.
The Bottom Line
The best cat food for heart disease is high in animal protein and moisture, moderate to low in sodium, and packed with nutrients that support heart function and overall health. Wet foods are generally preferred, but always tailor your cat’s diet with your veterinarian’s guidance. With careful nutrition, regular monitoring, and plenty of love, cats with heart disease can still live happy, comfortable lives.
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before changing your cat’s diet or supplements, especially with a diagnosis of heart disease.